Lymphedema and flu shot?

Footsox2

I have mild lymphedema in both arms. I am 8 years post surgery and it gets better every year. I only wear gloves when I fly now - not every day. I have blood draws taken out of my foot, and BP on my leg. I have never gotten a flu shot, but last year I had the flu for several weeks and was sicker than I have ever been. So, this year I would like to get a flu shot. Since my Lymphedema is so mild, do you think I can just "go for it" and get the flu shot in my arm? Or do others here get the flu shot somewhere else? Any advice is greatly appreciated. Thanks!

GG27

I always get my flu shot in my butt. Years ago the Dr told me to take a tylenol an hour before the shot to minimize any SE's.

Moderators

Hi Footsox,

In addition to GG's advice, according to the main Breastcancer.org site's page on Lymphedema, you can also get a flu shot in your hip. We hope this helps!

--The Mods

Binney4

Footsox2, you can get a flu shot in your thigh as well. The problem I have is that my PCP isn't doing flu shots this year, and the clinics at the drugstores won't give the shot anywhere but in the arm. In past years I've gotten it from a place that does all sorts of immunizations for foreign travel, but they've closed down. So this year I have to get a prescription from my doctor for the injectable, take an ice chest to the pharmacy to pick it up, and then take it back to the PCP to inject.

As for using your arm, why risk it? Especially since things have been getting better for you. Since it can be given elsewhere it's not worth taking the chance. LE--ugh!

Let us know how it goes for you!
Binney

ksusan

I had mine in my thigh.

Nordy

What about getting the nasal mist? The big difference is that the mist is a live vaccine whereas the injection is not. I don't do either when at all possible since they don't get the concoction right half the time anyway, but if you are going to do it, the mist is another option.

coraleliz

The nasal mist is only approved for people under 50. I work in healthcare & my employer requires me to get a flu shot or wear a mask at all times except my meal break(it would be easier to work with one hand tied behind my back!). My employer will not administer the vaccine anywhere but the arm. I've been able to get the vaccine in my thigh at community clinics. Just have to make sure you dress in such away that the thigh is accessible.

I think the problem is that in healthcare we give so few intramuscular injections these days. Vaccinations mainly. Nurses & Medical Assistants(and others that give injections) have no experience giving injections anywhere but the arm.

kareenie

I got mine in thigh at PCP office flu clinic.

rainnyc

I got mine in my MO's office. Just another thought: go to wherever you're being (or have been) treated for cancer? At least they'll have heard of LE and will take it seriously, I hope.