Covid and flu jab

Hi Ruva 

Are you asking this question because you've had lymph nodes removed? If so, then the advice is not to have any injections in the arm on the side where the lymph nodes were removed. This is because of the risk of lymphoedema.

If you’ve had your nodes removed, do not have it in that arm. You can either have both in one arm in different sites or opt to have one in your thigh. This year I did that, easier on the arm and I was in a private room rather than a hall, covid in thigh, flu in arm, it was fine. I have also had them both in the same arm before and that was fine too, just the achy arm was very achy!

I was never told this after my op. I had my flu jab then 1/52 later my Covid, both on my treated side. Thankfully, no problems, but I’ll remember in future. I’m surprised my GP nurse didn’t mention it as she knew my diagnosis

I’ve just had mine . I had both jabs in my non SNB arm , same time . The  pharmacist was happy to do it . Had a sore arm for a few days 

I just had both, I had not heard about not having it on the arm of the lymph node that that been removed! I had one on that arm. No problems so far (fingers  crossed), but I wished the pharmacist had known! 

1. The guidance has changed now , I was told by a breast care nurse on a Moving Forward course. But I still don’t want to risk it .

I've had full lymph node clearance on both sides. I asked my surgeon about the risk of lymphoedema and he said guidance has changed and research shows that an injection or blood test doesn't put you at extra risk. I recently had flu and covid in each arm and no problems along with numerous others over the last three years. 

Hi

I had my flu jab under the recommendation of my nursing team last Friday. I have the symptoms of flu and full of a cold. The emergency chemo helpline didn't seem bothered and I didn't get a phone call after I had the pre chemo bloods today.

I think that's really interesting about not having the injection in the treated side. But then my PICC line is in the other arm.

I was told to have a COVID test and I could get it from any pharmacy but my local pharmacy doesn't do tests and boots charge- go figure!!!

Hi ... I have to have a picc line inserted on Tuesday and I’m scared stiff .  Do I keep my top and bra on during the procedure and how long does it take.  I feel physically sick at the thought and I’m scared I’m going to pass out ...xx

Hi dramalady

I'm gonna be brutally honest and say it's not the best experience but it is definitely worth doing if like me, you have weak veins and scared of needles.  I would recommend it.

I was asked to go topless with a gown and dressing gown.

They x-ray the area and give a local anaesthetic. I only felt a tiny tug sensation as it was rested in the main vein in my chest. I had a wonderful team that did mine. They talked to me the whole time. I was more of a wreck in my operation to remove the tumour than this.I was in there no more than 5-10 minutes. And then spent about an hour in recovery. Again the aftercare I couldn't fault.

The first 2 weeks I was so cautious that something would happen and lifting my arm , it would feel like a pinching sensation but 3 weeks later and I hardly know it's.there. the district nursing staff change the dressing and flush it in-between treatment weeks and they are so gentle.

You will be fine. It beats having a cannula put in every time for bloods and chemo cycles.

My anxiety was sky high also but I faint at a sight of a needle despite being able to have tattoos done. Strange I know.

But you will be fine and I say, it's worth doing for all the treatment ahead.

I send you all the love and positivity for Tuesday 

Oh and don't be afraid to ask questions