Flu Shot Effect on Peripheral Neuropathy

Influenza, more commonly called the flu, is a viral infection that affects approximately 200,000 people in the U.S. every year. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that people at high risk for infection be vaccinated in order to control the potential for large outbreaks. However, there are side effects to the vaccination, such as peripheral neuropathy, and patients should consult with their doctor before getting a flu shot.

Flu vs. Cold

• The flu is an infection of the upper respiratory system resulting in coughing, sneezing and headache. Unlike the common cold, sufferers of the flu develop high fevers and extreme fatigue. Flu symptoms can last for several days and in extreme cases may require hospitalization. A cold generally resolves itself without medical intervention unless a persistent sinus or lung infection develops. The stomach flu, medically defined as gastroenteritis, involves stomach cramps, vomiting and diarrhea and has no relation to influenza.

Preventing the Flu

• The best way to prevent the flu is to get a influenza vaccination (flu shot). The

  Criteria for the flu shot include anyone less than 5 years old or over 50, people with chronic medical conditions, pregnant women and people living in a long term care facility. It is also important to vaccinate anyone who cares for or lives with the aforementioned groups, particularly heath care workers.

Vaccination Complications

• The most common side effects of flu shots are soreness at the injection site, mild fever and/or general body ache. These symptoms rarely last longer than 24 hours. However, in rare cases a condition called peripheral neuropathy may develop.

What is Neuropahty?

• The core of the nervous system is the brain and spinal cord. All nerves in the body originate from these two areas. A neuropathy is a malfunction or disease of the nervous system. Most people experience peripheral neuropathy as a numbness or tingling originating in the tips of the fingers or toes. Causes of peripheral neuropathy include diabetes, alcoholism, poor nutrition or certain medications. In the case of flu shots, it is believed that any neuropathy that may result is due to a malfunction of the patient's immune system causing it to destroy nerve cells. The most likely result is Guillain-Barré Syndrome.

Guillain-Barré Syndrome

• Guillain-Barré Syndrome is a neurological disorder that develops when the body's own immune system begins attacking nerve cells. Symptoms include tingling and/or numbness in the hands, feet and face, difficulty breathing and general muscle weakness. Normally these symptoms resolve themselves. However, anyone experiencing these symptoms should seek medical attention as the weakness could affect muscles of the heart and lungs. In severe cases, a patient will require a ventilator to assist breathing. Persons having experienced GBS prior to or as a result of a flu shot are recommended to seek doctor supervision.