Flu Shots & Elbow Pain

Flu shots have long been recommended for children, the elderly and any others who may be immuno-compromised. The shots are now even more broadly encouraged to help prevent widespread flu outbreaks. These vaccinations are tested to high standards of safety before being approved for use by the public; however, side effects may still occur with these and any other vaccines. Elbow pain resulting from a flu shot is not uncommon. Medical attention should be sought if the pain is severe and persistent.

Administration

• Flu shots are typically administered in the fall before the onset of the winter flu season. The shots need to be administered yearly because different strains of flu are present each year, and the vaccinations change accordingly. Flu shots are typically injected into the upper arm of the non-dominant hand, because it is not unusual for there to be some pain or discomfort at the injection site for a few days after receiving the injection. This is the fleshiest part of the arm where the needle will be least painful while the shot is being administered.

Pain After Injection

• Feeling pain around the injection site and achiness in the arm where the needle was administered is a common side effect of receiving a flu shot. These sensations can be caused by a combination of the trauma caused by the needle and a slight local reaction to the vaccine itself. This type of pain is normal so long as it does not last more than a few days or become too severe.

Severe and Persistent Pain

• If you feel pain in the elbow that is severe or persists for more than a few days after receiving a flu shot, consult a physician. It is possible that a nerve may have been hit and agitated by the needle, and it may take several weeks for that nerve to go back to its normal state and the elbow pain to recede. There is also a slight possibility of infection occurring because of a bacteria or virus entering the blood stream at the injection site, which can cause severe pain throughout the arm, including the elbow. These infections are serious and should be treated immediately.

Allergic Reactions

• Those who experience swelling, rashes or hives and difficulty breathing after receiving their flu shot should seek out immediate medical attention. This is an allergic reaction to the egg compound or another component of the flu shot and can be life threatening.

Alternatives

• To avoid elbow pain and other side effects related to receiving injections, it is possible to receive a flu vaccination through a nasal spray. Nasal spray flu vaccinations cannot be used on those who are in poor health, are pregnant, or are on an aspirin regimen. It is also standard for the flu shot to be covered by insurance, but some insurers do not cover the nasal spray, making it a more expensive option.