Why Does The Arm Get Sore After A Flu Shot

Why Does The Arm Get Sore After A Flu Shot?

A sore arm is a common side effect of flu shot. While it can be uncomfortable, it's important to remember that it's a sign that your body is building immunity to the flu virus. There are various factors that can contribute to arm soreness after getting the flu shot. This article will focus on the essential factors that can exacerbate the discomfort in your arm after the vaccination.

The flu shot contains inactivated flu viruses, which are designed to trigger an immune response in the body. When the vaccine is injected into the arm, the immune system sends white blood cells to the injection site to attack the inactivated viruses. This process can cause inflammation and soreness in the arm.

The type of flu shot you receive can also affect the severity of arm soreness. The quadrivalent flu vaccine, which protects against four strains of the flu virus, is more likely to cause arm soreness than the trivalent flu vaccine, which protects against three strains of the flu virus.

The location of the injection can also affect arm soreness. The flu shot should be given in the deltoid muscle, which is located in the upper arm. If the injection is given too high or too low, it can cause more soreness.

The individual's immune system can also play a role in arm soreness after the flu shot. People with weakened immune systems may experience more soreness than people with healthy immune systems.

There are a few things you can do to reduce arm soreness after the flu shot. These include applying a cold compress to the injection site, taking over-the-counter pain relievers, and resting the arm.

Arm soreness after the flu shot is a common side effect that usually goes away within a few days. By understanding the factors that can contribute to arm soreness, you can take steps to reduce your discomfort.