Can Pneumonia Shots Cause Swelling, Redness And Heat In The Arm?

Posted on Thu, 8 Feb 2018

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Thu, 8 Feb 2018 Answered on

Fri, 15 Nov 2024 Last reviewed on

Question : After getting my pneumonia shot yesterday, I'm have swelling, redness and heat covering my upper arm. No trubble breathing or mentating. Should I be concerned?

Answered by Dr. salah saad shoman (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:

Common side-effect

Detailed Answer:

Hello,

But it seems that you are having an injection site reaction which is common after the pneumonia shot.

This is usually self-limited and resolves on its own within a couple of days.

However, cold compresses 3-5 times daily may help fasten the recovery together with an antihistaminic cream as Benadryl cream every eight hours.

If after 48 hours no resolution occurred then you should refer to your doctor for a prescription of a corticosteroid ointment.

Hope I have answered your query.

Take care

Regards,
Dr Salah Saad Shoman, Internal Medicine Specialist

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad