Mast Cell Disorders Forum

Mast Cell Disorders Forum
http://mastcelldisorders.wallack.us/yabb/YaBB.pl General Mast Cell Disorders Discussion >> General Mast Cell Disorder Discussion >> Flu shots http://mastcelldisorders.wallack.us/yabb/YaBB.pl?num=1378749998 Message started by DeborahW, Founder on 09/09/13 at 07:06:38

Title: Flu shots
Post by DeborahW, Founder on 09/09/13 at 07:06:38

So, let's share experiences with flu shots. The main mast cell experts have always recommended that we mast cell people get both flu pneumonia shots (those are only every 10 yrs I believe). Thus, I have always done that.

I have never had any reaction at all to the flu shot. HOWEVER, last year after I got my flu shot, my arm got red, hot, and kind of swollen around the injection shot. It was annoying, but I ignored it. Surprisingly to me, though, for the next week or 2 I actually felt fluish and had an increase in mast cell symptoms. I was really shocked! Obviously that particular flu vaccine triggered my mast cells. Bummer!

Now, I must say that I am a bit nervous to get my flu shot this year. I am going to, but am definitely nervous. I am thinking about taking my extra meds (extra xyrtec and allegra and adding a singulair) this time around for a few days before and after I get the shot.

Title: Re: Flu shots
Post by texan1960 on 09/09/13 at 12:42:53

I get the same reaction as you. It lasts a day or two. I get the same reaction when I get an allergy shot ( I am one with allergies too that have to be kept under control or everything flares up). My immuno recommended extra meds (singulair) on days when I get immuniz or shots...I think it helps some with that achy fluish symptom, but I still get an IC flareup... Better than the flu though!

Title: Re: Flu shots
Post by Riverwn on 10/11/13 at 06:10:43

I have bad side effects too, after flu and pneumonia injections and I have avoided them totally for the last 10 years. Just my experience, do what is best for you.
Hugs
Ramona

Title: Re: Flu shots
Post by kesasur on 10/11/13 at 10:25:21

Last flu shot I received was about 8 years ago when my daughter was born. I was being proactive and we'd have no flu around the newborn.
I was hit like rock w/ a headache that pounded like none I've ever had (except for after my c/section...) before and just had to rest for about 3 hours.
I decided after that it just wasn't worth it. So I skip it.

Kelley

Title: Re: Flu shots
Post by KatFromMD on 10/12/13 at 04:31:36

Just got my annual flu shot on Wednesday with nothing more than the usual sore arm. I always get a preservative-free shot at the doctor's office. They've come out with a number of new formulations this year, including the nasal spray version and one for people allergic to eggs. Maybe the nasal spray version would work better for you as it wouldn't all be concentrated in one location?

Title: Re: Flu shots
Post by DeborahW, Founder on 10/13/13 at 14:47:15

The specialists tell us mast cell patients to NOT get the nasal spray ones. I believe those are live, and therefore not safe for us.

Title: Re: Flu shots
Post by Sasha on 10/22/13 at 10:09:36

I haven't had one in 3 years since pregnant with my son. I had a lot of pain in my arm afterwards for a few days and felt sick to my stomach - like a stomach virus/headache the night after the shot. Other than that, I was fine but I dont tend to get severe reactions during my pregnancies... only while not pregnant. Haven't had a shot since. I did get that really bad flu, last year, though, it was horrible ...

Title: Re: Flu shots
Post by Joan on 11/01/13 at 16:24:21

My doctor told me to have titers done to check immunity before having a pneumonia vaccine, especially if there's been a prior reaction of any type. Might be something to check out before having one.