Navigating scanxiety: What to do while waiting for medical test results

I came across a peculiar yet fitting word today: scanxiety. It’s a term that’s likely familiar if you’ve ever been in the nerve-racking position of awaiting medical test results, especially when dealing with potentially serious diagnoses like cancer or heart disease. The period between taking the test and meeting your healthcare provider can feel like enduring an endless countdown, where each tick of the clock amplifies your anxiety. Scanxiety can overshadow everyday life, casting a looming shadow over even mundane activities.

Anxiety is love’s greatest killer. It makes others feel as you might when a drowning man holds on to you. You want to save him, but you know he will strangle you with his panic.

Anaïs Nin

However, anxiety doesn’t have to dominate your days. In this post, I’ll share my experience and explore ways we can ease this stress and make the wait less daunting.

More Diagnostic Tests

A little over a month ago, I underwent another fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) PET-scan. This entails the injection of a radioactive FDG tracer that produces color-coded images delineating both normal and potentially cancerous tissue.

As I knew this was just a routine precautionary measure to check for cancer return or spread, I had no cause for concern. I was, in fact, merely grateful for the follow-up care. In my usual fashion, I just went with the flow.

In British Columbia, it’s standard operating procedure for the report, although requested by the oncology clinic, to be sent to the key health professionals involved in my care—my family doctor, general oncologist, and ocular oncologist. And, ahem, not to me—a continuing source of frustration for me that I voice to each consulting physician.

Expectation is the mother of all frustration.

Antonio Banderas

Anticipating a comprehensive explanation from my oncologist, I was unexpectedly updated during a teleconsultation with my family doctor, two weeks post-scan. She cautiously refrained from detailed disclosure but shared the relieving news that no organs appeared cancerous. Yet, there was a concerning illuminated area on my right breast, the one previously treated for a tumor.

Further clarification came swiftly. A stand-in general oncologist, substituting my regular physician on sick leave, called the next day. He confirmed a minor FDG uptake, which remained ambiguous in interpretation—signifying they didn’t yet know whether the cancer had returned to my breast… or not.

This prompted yet another diagnostic test—a contrast-enhanced mammogram. This procedure involves injecting an iodine-based dye prior to X-rays to reveal any new blood vessels indicating cancer growth.

A week later, I received a call from the BC Cancer Agency for an early morning appointment the following day. Despite the inconvenience of an early one-hour drive into the city, I was thankful for the prompt scheduling, minimizing the wait.

That was completed nine days ago on December 13. Now, I await the results, expected on my January 15 appointment with my oncologist.

Dealing with Anxiety

Experiencing anxiety during this waiting period is perfectly normal. Studies reveal that many individuals endure heightened worry, plagued by insomnia or even nausea. This anxiety is a byproduct of uncertainty about the results, and it can erode anyone’s peace of mind.

Although the situation lingers in my awareness, I’ve managed to maintain a sense of calm, refusing to allow the waiting period to disrupt my inner peace.

Engaging in enjoyable distractions can be a potent strategy. Nature walks, cherished time with my honey, socializing with dear friends, and immersing myself in work keep me rooted in the present moment.

There are moments when all anxiety and stated toil are becalmed in the infinite leisure and repose of nature.

Henry David Thoreau

Alternatively, diving into hobbies like painting, reading, or indulging in a favorite sitcom can offer comfort. Moving our bodies, such as a walk outdoors or a home workout, can also lift our spirits. Of course, I also don’t shy away from leaning on my honey and close friends.

Simple relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing exercises or meditation, can effectively calm racing thoughts. Counting my blessings works for me, while others may find solace in prayer:

Lord, help me to live this day, quietly, easily. To lean upon Thy great strength, trustfully, restfully. To wait for the unfolding of Thy will, patiently, serenely. To meet others, peacefully, joyously. To face tomorrow, confidently, courageously.

Francis of Assisi

If you’re grappling with scanxiety while awaiting medical results, recognize that it’s a natural reaction. Acknowledging this can help in managing it. Each person copes differently, so finding support tailored to your needs can be immensely beneficial.

Consider trying these tactics to find what suits you best. Whether it’s exploring a new activity or seeking support, taking proactive steps can significantly ease your scanxiety.

If you find yourself navigating the stress of waiting for medical test results, you’re not alone. I’d be tickled if you share your own experiences in the comments below. Together, we can support each other in transforming scanxiety into tranquility.