How Long Does Arm Pain Last From Flu Shot

How Long Does Arm Pain Last From Flu Shot?

It's that time of year again: flu season. And with flu season comes the flu shot. The flu shot is a safe and effective way to protect yourself from the flu, but it can sometimes cause side effects, including arm pain.

Arm pain is the most common side effect of the flu shot. It's usually mild and goes away within a few days. However, in some cases, arm pain can be more severe and last for longer.

There are a few things that can affect how long arm pain lasts from the flu shot. These include:

The type of flu shot you get. There are two types of flu shots: inactivated and live attenuated. Inactivated flu shots are made with killed flu viruses and are less likely to cause side effects, including arm pain. Live attenuated flu shots are made with weakened flu viruses and are more likely to cause side effects, including arm pain.
Your age. Children are more likely to experience arm pain from the flu shot than adults.
Your overall health. People with weakened immune systems are more likely to experience arm pain from the flu shot.
The location of the injection. The flu shot is usually given in the upper arm. If the injection is given too close to a nerve, it can cause more pain.

In most cases, arm pain from the flu shot will go away within a few days. However, if your arm pain is severe or lasts for more than a week, you should see a doctor.

There are a few things you can do to help relieve arm pain from the flu shot:

Apply a cold compress to the injection site.
Take over-the-counter pain medication, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
Rest the arm that received the injection.
Avoid strenuous activity for a few days.
If your arm pain is severe or lasts for more than a week, see a doctor.

The flu shot is a safe and effective way to protect yourself from the flu. Arm pain is a common side effect of the flu shot, but it usually goes away within a few days. If your arm pain is severe or lasts for more than a week, see a doctor.