Unknown mass

Hello, I'm wondering if anyone has any ideas or information on what I could be experiencing.

almost a year ago, when laying down I began to notice a feeling of pressure in my lower right abdomen, almost in line with my hip bone. When I feel the pressure if I place my hand there I can feel a large mass in my pelvis/lower abdomen, but this is not present all of the time.
I visited the GP who on examination couldn't feel anything as the mass wasn't present/protruding at the time, but he sent me for an ultrasound, again nothing was found at the time. I've had bowel problems for some months now varying from painful to pass stools resulting in bleeding, to soft mucusy stools more regularly, and this can vary between the two from one week to the next. A few days ago when the mass was present I managed to take some photos and have emailed these to the gp requesting another appointment. 
Today I saw the GP again, where again he examined me to no avail, he's ruled out a hernia which I understand as I have never thought this to be the issue. He agrees that the mass can clearly be seen on the images but as he cannot feel it at the time of examination he feels there's nothing to look into further and I should only come back if the mass starts causing pain.

Im worried that whatever this is could be allowed to worsen before anyone is interested in investigating further. Does anyone have any advice as to what it could be or where I should go from here?

  • Hi Mrsbee and thanks for posting.

    It sounds like you have been having a worrying time and can understand you wanting to find out more about what is happening.

    You say you have been to see your GP twice and have had an ultrasound scan which saw nothing.  Ultrasound scans can be really useful in looking organs and internal structures.  I know that you keep feeling the lump, but hopefully you can feel a bit reassured that the ultrasound didn't show anything abnormal.

    If, after a few weeks, you continue to feel this lump at different times, you could make a non urgent appointment with your GP.  Ask if a referral to a specialist doctor is possible, if it isn't, ask why. You could also talk to your GP about the benefit of a private referral.  It could also be useful to keep a diary of when the lump appears and your bowel symptoms too, so you are able to talk this through with the GP.

    I hope this is helpful but please do get back to us if you need any more information or support.  You might like to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline.  The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

    Take care,

    Rachel