It’s flu season, so it’s time to head to your health care provider, local pharmacy or urgent care for a flu shot.
Getting a flu shot is a smart move for staying healthy. But sometimes, side effects like a sore arm can make you think twice about getting it. A sore arm is common after the flu shot – and the reason may surprise you.
Learn why you shouldn’t skip your flu shot and tips to prevent a sore arm afterward.
Why should I get a flu shot?
Why do you even need a flu shot? According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), getting vaccinated is the best way to protect yourself from influenza (flu) viruses that can lead to serious illness and even hospitalization. Flu shots are especially important for those with weakened immune systems or at high risk for complications.
Contrary to a common myth, the flu shot can’t give you the flu because it doesn’t contain live viruses. Instead, it helps your immune system recognize and fight the virus if you encounter it.
“Flu shots keep you from getting sick with the flu and reduce the severity of the illness if you do get the flu,” said Kothandapany Shalini, MD, an internal medicine specialist with Banner Health. “In pregnant people, it protects infants from getting the flu and it’s lifesaving in children.”
Why is my arm sore?
After your flu shot, you might feel like you’ve been punched in the arm. This is a common side effect. While usually mild, the achiness you are feeling is a good sign.
“Arm pain is a natural response, and it means that your body’s immune system is working to build up a defense against the flu virus,” Dr. Shalini said. “As your immune system reacts to the vaccine, it can cause temporary inflammation at the injection site, leading to soreness, redness and swelling.”
Arm pain usually lasts one to three days. The good news is that you can take steps to ease or even prevent this discomfort.
Tips to avoid a sore arm
- Use your non-dominant arm: If you’re right-handed, get your flu shot in your left arm (and vice versa). Using your less dominant arm in your daily activities can reduce irritation.
- Stay relaxed during the shot: Tensing your muscles can make the injection site more sensitive afterward. Take slow, deep breaths to stay calm during the shot. It may also help to chew some gum or suck on a breath mint.
- Move your arm: Don’t baby your arm like you would with an injury. After your shot, gently move your arm in a circle or up and down. This can help increase blood flow and reduce stiffness.
- Apply a cool, wet cloth: If you feel soreness, apply a cool compress to the injection site to help reduce swelling and pain. After a few days, you can try a warm compress to relax your muscles and increase blood flow.
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids before and after your vaccination. Staying hydrated helps your body respond better to the vaccine.
- Avoid intense exercise: For the first 24 hours after your shot, skip intense physical activity, like running or weight training. Give your body time to rest and recover. Consider light stretching or yoga instead.
- Use pain reliever medication: Before your shot, ask your health care provider if it’s safe for you to take over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen before and/or after the shot.
When to seek help
Common side effects of the flu shot include soreness, redness and swelling at the injection site, muscle aches and low-grade fevers. However, there are some rare and serious side effects.
“Seek medical attention if swelling worsens over several days or experience life-threatening allergic reaction, such as problems breathing, wheezing, fast heart rate, dizziness, hives or weakness,” Dr. Shalini said.
Conclusion
Don’t let the fear of a sore arm stop you from getting your flu shot. It’s a simple step to protect yourself and others from the flu virus. By following these tips, you can minimize pain and discomfort and maximize the benefits of the vaccination.
Remember, preventing the flu isn’t just about staying healthy. It’s one of the easiest ways to contribute to the health of your community. A day or two of discomfort is worth the thousands of lives that can be saved.
See your health care provider or a Banner Health specialist if you have questions or concerns about the flu shot. You can schedule your flu vaccination today with a Banner Urgent Care or Banner Health Clinic.
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