How do I Manage Side Efects of the Flu Vaccine?
An influenza or flu vaccine, commonly referred to as a flu shot, is a vaccine used as protection against the influenza virus. Given that the flu virus is very adaptable and variable, it is necessary, especially for certain age groups and patients with chronic medical conditions, to get the flu shot every year. Like other vaccines and drugs, flu shots also have a number of potential side effects. You should learn what the side effects are and how to manage them before you take your flu shot.
Other People Are Reading
Things You'll Need
- Dry chamomile flowers
- Chamomile tea
- Towels
- Pots and bowls
- Tea
- Freshly squeezed fruit and vegetable juice
- Vitamin C
- Multivitamins
- Dry crackers and biscuits
- Thermometer
Instructions
-
-
1
Recognize your symptoms and side effects before you start treating them. The most common side effects are muscle ache, colds, cough, fever, weakness and runny nose. However, there may also be more serious symptoms such as major allergic reactions, itchiness, vomiting, rashes and blisters. Make sure to list all the symptoms that you have to get the right treatment. Flu shot side effects look like flu symptoms. This is because a flu shot actually contains three different flu viruses. Treating and managing flu vaccine side effects is somewhat like treating flu itself.
-
2
Drink warm, mild chamomile tea to soothe a sore throat. Overall, drink lots of fluids, such as water, squeezed fruit juices diluted with water and unsweetened teas. Avoid coffee, sodas and alcoholic drinks since these will only dehydrate your body, making the symptoms more severe.
-
-
3
Inhale hot steam from the chamomile tea. Hold your face right above a pot or cup of tea with your head covered with a clean, dry towel. Inhale as much steam as you can. This will clear your respiratory system and make breathing easier. After you have finished inhaling, place a few bowls filled with hot chamomile tea around the room. The smell of chamomile will soothe your breathing.
-
4
Eat plenty or fruits and vegetables and avoid meat, dairy products and any kind of spicy and processed food. You may lose appetite because of the symptoms, but do not keep your stomach empty. Eat dry crackers, toasts and biscuits. These food will stabilize and not upset your stomach.
-
5
Rest and sleep as much as you can. Lie in a half-sitting position in a comfortable bed or couch.
-
6
Use cotton sheets and natural fiber linen and pillows.
-
7
Check your temperature regularly. If it rises above 101 degrees fahrenheit, call your doctor. In some cases, when the temperature is extremely high, you can take a cold shower to lower your body temperature.
-
8
Take multivitamins, especially vitamin C. Vitamin C will help boost your immune system.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Consult your pharmacist about common solutions and cures for influenza shot side effects.
In case of a severe allergic reaction or a similar serious and violent side effect, contact your doctor immediately.
References
- Photo Credit influenza vaccine image by Keith Frith from Fotolia.com
