Warning: This article discusses cancer, which may be distressing for some readers.
A woman from the UK discovered she had cancer after initially attributing a significant symptom to ‘hay fever’.
In July 2023, Ellen McCleary began experiencing nosebleeds after returning from a holiday, initially dismissing them as unimportant.
However, when the nosebleeds became frequent, occurring up to three times daily, the 46-year-old contacted her GP, who prescribed antibiotics suspecting hay fever.
Ellen recounted: “I noticed my nose was very dry but didn’t give it much thought. After our holiday, the nosebleeds began.
“I assumed it was due to hay fever, called the doctor, and although I wasn’t seen, I was given antibiotics because they believed it was hay fever-related.
“I suffer from hay fever quite severely. The nosebleeds were daily, at any time, sometimes up to three times a day.”
Hoping the antibiotics would resolve her issues, Ellen was alarmed when she began coughing up blood clots, prompting an ENT appointment in October 2023.
This mother of six, residing in Carlisle, UK, underwent a biopsy and CT scan which revealed a cancerous tumor behind her nasal bone, extending towards her brain.
Ellen underwent surgery later that month, expecting only tumor removal, but was unexpectedly left without her nose.
She shared: “I’m getting a magnetic nose. It can be sore, and I don’t wear it at home. I do experience shortness of breath now, which is new. Even vacuuming leaves me breathless.
“Apart from having no nose, my daily life remains mostly unchanged.
“Cleaning it daily is necessary due to the absence of nasal hair, and I encounter issues when it leaks mucus.
“As I can’t blow my nose, I use toilet paper to twist out the mucus. I’m on my seventh prosthetic nose, as it shrinks during healing.”
Ellen mentioned it took her a year and a half to come to terms with her nose’s appearance. When people stare at her in public, she responds with ‘two fingers up’.
Fortunately, Ellen is now cancer-free and shares: “I’m staying positive; it’s important to remain optimistic. Connecting with friends online has been a comforting support.
“Always insist on seeing a doctor, whether the nosebleed is minor or severe, and if dismissed, persist in seeking help.”
If these issues have impacted you and you wish to talk confidentially, reach out to the American Cancer Society at 1-800-227-2345 or use their 24/7 live chat feature.