You might be checking out this web site because you think you’ve got cancer. Sometimes, when you have a worrying symptom, it’s hard not to imagine that it’s something pretty serious. Especially if someone you know had a similar symptom which did turn out to be serious.
The main thing to remember is that cancer in teenagers is extremely rare. The symptoms you’ll see mentioned on this site are much more likely to be caused by ordinary everyday complaints. If you are worried about any symptoms, it’s best to get checked out by your GP.
It is easy to make an appointment to see your GP. You just need to telephone the surgery to ask for an appointment. When you make the appointment you don’t have to say why you want to see the doctor; if they ask, you can just say that it is private.
It can be difficult to talk to parents or people you are close to, even those who are very supportive. GPs know this - you can choose to go with your parents, or if you prefer, you can go to see the GP without them. You can also take them with you and then see the doctor on your own. It is up to you. It is often easier to talk to your parents once you have found out a bit more about what is going on.
Remember if you have any symptoms they are much more likely to be due to something else, but anything that is not normal for you should be checked.
If you would like to find out more about cancer, the section I've got what? includes information about what it is, possible causes and general information about treatment.
For other information about your health, you may find it helpful to look at the following websites:
- Teenage Health Freak www.teenagehealthfreak.org
- TheSite.org for 16-25 year olds www.thesite.org.uk
I'm a friend.....
If you’re looking at this site because a friend or relative has cancer, we hope it will help you to understand more about what they might be going through. Have a look at our section for 'other people' where you'll find some ideas on how to support the person with cancer and how to cope yourself.
