How long does arm pain usually last after getting a COVID-19 vaccination?

For most people, arm pain usually lasts for a day or two. While this pain can be frustrating, it's a sign that the vaccine is working and doing what it's job - protecting you from serious illness.

Why does the COVID-19 vaccine cause arm pain?

Your body recognizes the protein as an antigen — something foreign — and starts reacting to it with inflammation at the injection site. This is why the first shot very commonly causes arm pain.

Is it normal for the second Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine to cause arm pain?

As with all two-dose vaccines, those getting either Pfizer's or Moderna's COVID-19 vaccination are more likely to experience arm pain after the second dose. This side effect is also more common if you are under 65 years old.

Why does my arm hurt after the first Pfizer shot?

Arm pain is a common side effect of vaccinations and is caused by your immune system responding to the vaccine you received. Taking over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) after your vaccination can help reduce the pain you experience.

When will my COVID-19 vaccine side effects go away?

Side effects can affect your ability to do daily activities, but they should go away in a few days.

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Is it normal to have side effects after second COVID-19 vaccine?

Side effects after your second shot may be more intense than the ones you experienced after your first shot. These side effects are normal signs that your body is building protection and should go away within a few days.

Is it normal that I feel worse after second COVID-19 shot?

This is normal and expected, but it doesn't happen to everyone. Even if you feel worse after the second shot, the side effects should still resolve within a few days.

How can I make my arm less sore after a COVID-19 vaccine?

Take over-the-counter pain relievers if needed after the shot, such as ibuprofen, acetaminophen or aspirin (but only consider this after you get the vaccine, not before). Apply a clean, cool compress or ice pack to help reduce swelling and redness at the injection site.

How can I reduce the pain after the COVID-19 vaccine?

To reduce pain and discomfort where the shot is given

• Apply a clean, cool, wet washcloth over the area.
• Use or exercise your arm.

How long will an arm be red and swollen after the COVID-19 vaccine?

It usually subsides within three to four days, although one report in JAMA Dermatology notes it can last up to 21 days after injection with the Moderna vaccine.

What are the common side effects of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine?

Commonly reported side effects in the clinical trial included injection site pain (sore arm), redness and swelling, fatigue, headache, muscle and/or joint pain, chills, fever, swollen lymph nodes, nausea and decreased appetite.

What is COVID arm?

The term "COVID arm" has been coined to describe a harmless delayed hypersensitivity reaction occurring approximately a week after administration of the novel SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccine. It appears as a red, warm, pruritic, indurated, or swollen area in the vicinity of the vaccine site.

Is it normal for the arm to get swollen after a vaccine?

Types of vaccine reactions

Local: Something that happens in the area where the vaccine was given (such as the arm). Examples of these symptoms include arm soreness, redness, swelling and/or swollen lymph nodes in the arm where the shot was given.

The soreness in your arm is considered a local reaction.

Is it normal for the COVID-19 vaccine to cause shoulder pain?

Shoulder pain has been reported as a common side-effect after COVID-19 vaccination particularly after administration of mRNA vaccines. Although it is usually mild and self-limiting, occasionally it can become more extensive causing severe pain and marked limited range of motion.

Is it normal for the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines to cause swelling in the armpit?

The swelling in the armpit was a recognized side effect in the large trials of the Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech vaccines. According to The New York Times, in Moderna's study, "11.6% of patients reported swollen lymph nodes after the first dose, and 16% after the second dose.

Which arm should you take the COVID-19 vaccine in?

Either arm is appropriate for getting the shot. Many individuals, however, select their non-dominant arm. It is entirely up to the individual to choose which arm works best for them. If you sleep on your side, and put pressure on your right arm, it might be best to get the shot in your left arm.

Can you take pain medication before receiving the COVID-19 vaccine?

In light of this uncertain and conflicting evidence, many public health experts, as well as CDC and the World Health Organization (WHO), presently recommend against taking OTC painkillers before receiving a Covid-19 vaccine.

Can you take Tylenol or Advil after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine?

Yes, it's perfectly fine to take Tylenol or Advil after the COVID-19 vaccine. This is recommended by experts because it can help ease the side effects you might experience.

What should I do if I have swelling after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine?

Tell your doctor right away if you have a rash, itching, a fast heartbeat, trouble breathing, trouble swallowing, or any swelling of your hands, face, or mouth after receiving the vaccine.

Should I exercise after getting the COVID-19 vaccine?

COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective. Most people have mild side effects or no side effects at all. If you experience fatigue or muscle aches, take a day or two to rest. Or start with a lower-intensity workout, and gradually increase the intensity as your side effects start to go away.

Is it safe to take Tylenol or Ibuprofen before a COVID-19 vaccine?

Because of the lack of high-quality studies on taking NSAIDs or Tylenol before getting a vaccine, the CDC and other similar health organizations recommend not taking Advil or Tylenol beforehand.

Is it safe to use ice or heat on the arm after COVID-19 vaccine?

Apply ice or a warm compress after the injection. If your arm is sore, ice can help reduce pain and swelling. Some people find heat soothes better because it relaxes the muscle.

What are some of the side effects of the COVID-19 vaccine?

Some people have no side effects. Many people have reported side effects, such as headache, fatigue, and soreness at the injection site, that are generally mild to moderate and go away within a few days.

Does having fever, body pain, and swollen lymph nodes after the COVID-19 vaccine mean I am sick?

These symptoms do not mean you are sick. They signal that your immune system is responding to the shot and building up protection against the coronavirus.

Why do people experience side effects from COVID-19 vaccines?

When we get vaccinated for COVID-19, we often experience some side effects. The reason that we get side effects is that our immune system is revving up and reacting. When you get sick, the same thing happens.