It’s flu shot time—here are possible side effects and ways to relieve them
Being prepared means you'll feel better that much sooner
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Flu season is here and cases of respiratory illnesses are expected to rise in the coming months. As both influenza and COVID-19 are common in autumn, many are considering getting vaccines for both of the viruses at once. Staying up to date on vaccinations is important in fighting the spread of illness, though it’s important to be aware of potential side effects that may occur after them. As far as the flu shot goes, the following side effects are common and typically resolve after a few days. If side effects worsen or persist for longer than usual, it’s important to check in with your primary care provider
What are the side effects of the flu shot?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that common side effects of the seasonal flu shot include:
- Soreness, redness, and/or swelling where the shot was given
- Headache
- Fever
- Nausea
- Muscle aches
- Fatigue
Who should get a flu shot
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), everyone six months or older should get a flu vaccine every six months. Exceptions exist, including those who have allergies to components of the vaccine, including gelatin and antibiotics.
How to relieve flu shot side effects
The CDC states that these symptoms are typically mild and should resolve in a few days. If they persist or become severe, contact your doctor immediately. To alleviate mild symptoms, such as nausea, there are many products that can offer relief.
A water bottle to hydrate
If you’re confined to one spot post-flu shot, the Owala FreeSip will provide you fresh water for a full 24 hours.
Water is greatly effective at combatting fever and other side effects associated with the flu vaccine. To ensure you have a steady supply, we recommend having a reusable water bottle on hand. You can't go wrong with the Owala FreeSip, the best we've tested here at Reviewed thanks to its insulation and no-spill lid.
A thermometer to monitor your temperature
Femometer’s forehead thermometer provides clear and accurate tempurature readings with the help of its display screen.
Running a fever is one of the possible side effects of the flu shot. For reference, a fever is considered 100.4 °F or greater by most healthcare providers. To determine whether you have a fever or not, we recommend getting a digital thermometer like the one offered by Femometer. Accurate readings are given quickly and are color-coded for convenience.
A tea kettle to brew some nausea-combatting tea
When it comes to treating nausea, various types of teas, such as chamomile and ginger, are tried and true remedies. A convenient way to do so is by using a tea kettle. We love Susteas Stovetop Whistling Tea Kettle, which is the best kettle we've tested. Besides being absolutely gorgeous, this kettle heats quickly and easily. Plus, it lets out a loud whistle when the water has come to a boil.
Fresh, hot tea can soothe a sore throat and keep you hydrated.
Resistance bands to stretch your arm
Give tense muscles and joints a much-needed workout with a resistance band that physical therapists use.
With a sore arm, the last thing you probably want to do is exercise it. According to the CDC, however, that's exactly what you should be doing. Like the COVID-19 vaccine, the flu shot often causes a sore arm that can be eased by moving it to stimulate blood flow and subsequently reduce soreness. Fortunately, you won't have to pump iron to feel relief—stretching resistance bands, such as these highly rated ones from Amazon, should do the trick.
Epsom salt to take a soak in the bath
This scented, 3-pound bag of Epsom salt smells like soothing lavender so you’re met with aromatherapy while you soak.
A relaxing way to deal with aches and soreness is to soak in a bath filled with Epsom salts, which have long been used to treat pain and soreness. The Solimo Epsom Salt Soaking Aid has over 45,000 five-star ratings on Amazon, with reviewers praising the salt for its effectiveness and low price.
An ice pack to provide relief on site
Place NatraCure’s gel ice pack can be placed just about anywhere on the body for chronic muscle pain.
If you notice an ache around the site of your shot, an ice pack may provide quick relief to the pain by creating a numbing effect. NatraCure's FlexiKold Gel Ice Pack is one of the best-rated ice packs on Amazon, with over 8,000 5-star reviews. Reviewers love that the design allows the pack to fit snugly against any body part and the coldness lasts a long time.
A heating pad to rid yourself of a headache
No need to include pesky cords or wires with this easy-to-use, microwavable heating pad that’s filled with corn.
A warm compress or heating pad applied to your head may ease any headache that occurs as a result of your flu shot. In addition, if you feel sore or tense in other areas, the pad can be applied there, too. Caylee's Creations offers the best microwavable heating pad we've tested. We love it for its heat retention and delightful scent.
A washcloth for DIY pain relief
Amazon Basics offers 24 cotton terrycloths that are multifunctional for you and around your home.
A more DIY way to relieve soreness is by wetting a washcloth and placing it on the point of soreness. Cool washcloths can also be placed on your forehead or the back of your neck to relieve fever. With many positive reviews, the Amazon Basics washcloth pack is praised for its softness and absorbency.
An eye mask and pillow to get some shuteye
Even if you don’t have blackout in your bedroom, a good sleep mask can still help you block out harsh sun rays.
Time and rest are the best ways to deal with the possible side effects associated with the flu shot. You'll want to make a few upgrades to your sleep routine to ensure you get peaceful shuteye.
First, we recommend getting our favorite sleep mask from Mzoo. The Mzoo Sleep Mask totally blocks light, is adjustable for your convenience and puts no pressure on your eyes. With this mask, you'll be able to drift off to sleep no matter the time of day.
More importantly, though, you need a quality pillow for restful sleep. That's where our favorite pillow comes in. We love the Coop Home Goods Original Pillow for its top-notch comfort and its customization to be as full or flat as you prefer it.
The Coop Home Goods Original Pillow is a universal pillow that will provide comfort to various types of sleepers.