If you’ve never heard of sarcoma, you’re not alone.
Sarcomas are uncommon cancers that can affect any part of the body, on the inside or outside.
Some of the main symptoms can include
* a lump which is growing, changing, or bigger than a golf ball
* swelling, tenderness or pain in or around the bone which may come and go and may be worse at night
* stomach pain, feeling sick, loss of appetite or feeling full after eating only a small amount of food
* and blood in either your poo or vomit.
It is important to remember that sarcoma is not common -making up around 1% of all cancer diagnoses
Most lumps and pains won’t be a sarcoma, but If you have symptoms of sarcoma, you should see your GP who may refer you for further tests
For lumps, this should be an urgent ultrasound.
For bone lumps or pain, this should be an urgent x-ray.
If you’re not referred, it means that your GP either doesn’t think that you may have sarcoma, or that they want to see if your symptoms persist or progress over time
If your tests are negative or inconclusive, but your problems continue there may still be a small chance that sarcoma is present. You should see your GP to be referred for further tests.
You may still have a lot of questions. Our Support line specialists are here for anyone
Call our free, confidential phone line, text or email. sarcma.org.uk/supportline
Whatever questions you have - we’re here to help.
sarcoma.org.uk