Can You Get Vaccinated with Recent Symptoms? A Mental Health Perspective

Can I get vaccinated if I have some recent symptoms?

Recently, for about six months, I have been experiencing occasional chest pain and tightness (but the duration is very short), occasional back pain, and muscle and joint soreness.
I usually go to bed around 1 AM and wake up around 7 or 8 AM when my family gets up and makes noise.
I also tend to dream.
I've noticed that my nail beds are slightly purple.
However, in early August, I had a sudden episode of rapid heart rate and went to the emergency room at night.
Blood tests, blood pressure measurements, electrocardiograms, and urinalysis all showed normal results with no abnormalities.
The doctor said it was just a mild cold, so cardiovascular diseases were ruled out.
I was advised to get some sunlight, and the nail color is normal; it only turns slightly purple when I go back indoors.
I'm concerned that my symptoms might indicate autonomic nervous system dysfunction.
Next week, I can schedule to receive the BNT vaccine.
Is it okay to get vaccinated now and then see a mental health clinic later if needed? What should I pay attention to after receiving the vaccine?

Lo, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/10/04

Dr. Zhang Gengjia reply Psychiatry

Dear Sir/Madam,
From your letter, it is evident that you are experiencing discomfort and distress due to chest pain, tightness, and physiological symptoms.
Whether this is due to autonomic nervous system dysfunction requires a professional diagnosis.

1.
Facing an uncertain future, autonomic nervous system dysfunction is a common condition in modern society.
It is a chronic illness that requires long-term treatment for recovery.
2.
Autonomic nervous system dysfunction is a chronic condition characterized by episodes of exacerbation, remission, recovery, and relapse.
More than half of patients may experience a recurrence of symptoms even after they have improved.
Due to individual differences in physiology, it may take time to determine the most suitable medication, and it is not possible to simply attribute effectiveness to one specific drug.
Please be patient and cooperate with your physician.
3.
Regarding vaccines, each type may have side effects.
It is advisable to note the duration and frequency of any adverse symptoms you experience and discuss them with your physician.
4.
In addition to medication and psychotherapy, repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is a non-invasive, anesthesia-free, highly safe treatment option that does not require hospitalization.
It can improve anxiety and depressive moods.
For patients with treatment-resistant depression or poor medication response, significant improvement in depressive symptoms has been observed following rTMS treatment.
Our clinic is open for consultations from Monday to Friday, both in the morning and afternoon.
I recommend that you consider visiting the clinic for a personal evaluation of your symptoms by a physician, so that we can collaboratively discuss the best course of action for you.
Wishing you mental and physical well-being.
Sincerely,
Dr.
Chang Geng-Jia
Department of Psychiatry

Reply Date: 2021/10/04

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing a range of physical symptoms that are causing you significant anxiety and concern. Based on your description, it seems you have had episodes of chest pain, back pain, muscle soreness, and sleep disturbances, along with a recent episode of rapid heart rate that led to an emergency room visit. Fortunately, all your tests came back normal, which is a positive sign. However, your ongoing worries about your health and the possibility of having a serious condition, such as a cardiovascular issue, are understandably distressing.

From a mental health perspective, it is essential to recognize that anxiety can manifest physically, leading to a cycle of worry and somatic symptoms. This is often referred to as somatic symptom disorder, where psychological distress is expressed through physical symptoms. Your concerns about your health, particularly the fear of serious illness, can exacerbate your symptoms and create a feedback loop of anxiety and physical discomfort.
Regarding your question about vaccination while experiencing these symptoms, it is generally advisable to consult with a healthcare provider before proceeding with vaccination. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that individuals with recent or ongoing health concerns, especially those related to the heart or respiratory system, discuss their symptoms with a healthcare professional to determine the best course of action.
In your case, since you have already been evaluated and cleared of serious cardiovascular issues, it may be safe to proceed with vaccination. However, it is crucial to monitor how you feel before and after the vaccine. If you experience any significant changes in your symptoms or new symptoms arise, you should seek medical advice promptly.
After receiving the vaccine, it is essential to pay attention to your body and any reactions you may have. Common side effects of vaccines can include soreness at the injection site, fatigue, headache, and mild fever. These are generally mild and resolve within a few days. However, if you experience severe symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, or an allergic reaction, you should seek immediate medical attention.

In addition to considering vaccination, it may be beneficial for you to explore mental health support. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can be particularly effective for managing anxiety and health-related fears. A mental health professional can help you develop coping strategies to manage your anxiety and address the underlying worries that may be contributing to your physical symptoms.

In summary, while it may be possible for you to receive the vaccine, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider to ensure it is appropriate given your current symptoms. Additionally, seeking support for your mental health can help you manage your anxiety and improve your overall well-being. Remember, taking care of your mental health is just as important as addressing physical health concerns.

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