The flu shot can sometimes cause mild side effects, including muscle pain or soreness at the injection site. This discomfort is usually temporary and should subside within a day or two. It's a common reaction to vaccines and is not a cause for concern. If you experience severe or persistent muscle pain after a flu shot, consulting with a healthcare professional is a good idea.
For same-day flu shots and flu treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Lakewood. We’re open seven days a week and provide flu vaccinations on a walk-in basis. If you’d like to plan your visit in advance, please reserve your spot online!
How Does the Flu Shot Work?
The flu shot, or influenza vaccine, works by stimulating your immune system to produce antibodies against specific influenza virus strains. Here is further information:
- Selection of strains: Each year, experts predict which strains of the flu virus are most likely to circulate during the upcoming flu season. The vaccine is then designed to target these specific strains.
- Immune response: When you receive the vaccine, your immune system recognizes the viral components in the vaccine as foreign invaders. It then produces antibodies to fight these components.
- Antibody production: These antibodies remain in your system, ready to respond if exposed to the flu virus. If you encounter the flu virus later, your immune system can recognize and attack it more effectively, reducing the severity and duration of the illness.
What Are The Side Effects of a Flu Shot?
Flu shots can have some side effects but are generally mild and short-lived. Common side effects include:
- Soreness or redness at the injection site.
- Mild fever.
- Fatigue.
- Muscle aches.
- Headache.
- Nausea.
These side effects usually appear within a day or two of getting the vaccine and typically resolve on their own within a few days. Serious side effects are rare but can include severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis), although this is extremely uncommon. If you do experience any severe reactions, seek immediate care at the ER.
Tips for Relieving the Muscle Aches from a Flu Shot
If you experience muscle aches or soreness after a flu shot, there are several things you can do to relieve the discomfort. One or more of the following tips can work.
- Apply a cold compress: Applying a cold pack or ice wrapped in a thin cloth to the sore area for 15-20 minutes can help reduce inflammation and provide relief.
- Over-the-counter pain relievers: Non-prescription pain relievers like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) can help alleviate muscle aches and reduce fever or discomfort.
- Gentle movement: Gentle stretching and light physical activity like walking can help ease muscle soreness. Avoid strenuous exercise, which could exacerbate the discomfort.
- Warm compress: Some people find relief from muscle aches by applying a warm compress or taking a warm bath or shower.
- Massage: Gentle massage of the sore area may provide relief, but avoid excessive pressure or deep tissue massage, which could worsen the discomfort.
Get Your Walk-In Flu Shot at AFC Urgent Care Lakewood
Flu season is just around the corner, making now the best time to get your annual flu shot. AFC Urgent Care Lakewood provides flu vaccination for the whole family on a walk-in basis, seven days a week. Visit us today for your flu shot, so you can stay protected throughout the cold and flu season. If you have any additional questions, please contact us directly at (303) 988-3600.
