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Q: I’m 55, and a friend my age just got the shingles vaccine and urged me to do the same. But I’ve heard the shots can cause severe arm pain for days. Is it really worth it?
A: Yes, it usually is. The shingles vaccine, given in two doses over several months, helps prevent a much bigger problem than a sore arm or other side effects like fatigue, fever, and achiness.
The vaccine called Shingrix is very effective against shingles, which is a reactivation of the chickenpox virus that stays dormant in your nerves. Shingles can cause a very painful skin rash and may lead to a complication called postherpetic neuralgia, which is severe nerve pain that can last for months or even years after the rash disappears.
It’s smarter to prevent these issues rather than avoid the shingles vaccine because of temporary side effects. Shingrix is FDA-approved for adults 50 and older. Discuss your concerns with your doctor and get her advice.
It was done in 2 doses and I anpplied ice on it. It was sore but definitely worth it. No worse than a vaccine shot. Some might be more sensitive. Shingles is worse than a sore arm.
ReplyDeleteI didn't have much soreness with mine. I've known people with shingles. I'd much rather have the shot, even knowing it could've been painful
ReplyDeleteI didn’t have much arm pain. If you lift hand weights the same day, it decreases the likelihood of pain or soreness. That trick really works for me.
ReplyDeleteEn mi pais no hay esa vacuna pero si es muy necesaria. A mi padre le dio herpes. Te mando un beso
ReplyDeleteHaving had shingles in the past, I heartily add my "yes" to others!
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