If you have ever received a vaccination, you know your arm may feel a bit sore for a few days after the shot.
The pain you are experiencing is usually soreness of the muscle where the injection was given. This pain also is a sign that your immune system is making antibodies in response to the viruses in the vaccine.
RELATED: The First Year: Downloadable Vaccination Schedule for Babies
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Pain After a Shot: Normal Site Reactions to Vaccines
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in most cases vaccine side effects are minor and go away within a few days. Side effects vary according to vaccine type, such as flu, shingles, or pneumonia. Generally mild side effects of vaccines may include:
- Pain, redness, tenderness, or swelling at injection site.
- Fatigue.
- Headache.
- Itching at injection site.
- Nausea.
- Dizziness or fainting (most common in adolescents).
It is likely the combination vaccines — such as the diphtheria, tetanus, whooping cough (DTaP) — cause a greater local reaction and more of the “pain” you experience after the shot.
Can You Reduce Pain or Swelling After Vaccines?
If your arm hurts after a vaccine, there are some actions you can take:
- Move your arm around after the vaccine. If you try to keep too still, it may hurt more.
- Take a pain reliever for one or two days after receiving the vaccination to help with soreness and swelling.
- Rotate a warm pack on and off the injection site.
- If you’re concerned about the redness and swelling, outline the area with a marker. If it increases in size or does not decrease after a few days, call your doctor.

RELATED: Why Should I Get A Flu Shot?
When Should I Seek Help for Injection-Site Pain?
Any injection site that continues to be problematic after 48 hours should be seen by your doctor immediately. Other symptoms that may warrant medical care:
- High fever following a vaccination.
- Signs of an allergic reaction, which can include difficulty breathing, hoarseness or wheezing, hives, paleness, weakness, a fast heartbeat, or dizziness.
Concerned about pain, swelling, or soreness after your vaccine? Find a UPMC Urgent Care location near you.
Editor's Note: This article was originally published on , and was last reviewed on .
About UPMC
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