Novavax Vaccine Side Effects: Chest Pain Concerns

Adverse reactions associated with the Novavax COVID-19 vaccine?

Hello Doctor, I just received my first dose of the Novavax vaccine on the morning of August 18.
There were no immediate reactions during the vaccination, but that evening I started experiencing mild pain in my left chest, and I felt pain in the area of my left rib when breathing.
However, I did not feel pain when sleeping on my side.
The next day, after continuing to rest until the afternoon, my condition improved, but if I took a deep breath, I still felt pain in the left rib area.
By the third day, the aforementioned symptoms had resolved.
Since these symptoms are not listed among the common adverse reactions associated with the vaccine, should I go to the hospital to confirm my condition, or could this be just a difference in individual physiology?

Wei, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/08/20

Dr. Liao Yaopan reply Family Medicine

Hello, if you are experiencing discomfort, it is still advisable to return to a medical facility for evaluation to clarify the cause of your symptoms.
Online consultations are not equivalent to in-person visits and cannot provide diagnoses or treatment recommendations.
Changhua Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2022/08/20

More Info

It’s understandable to be concerned about any symptoms that arise after receiving a vaccine, especially if they are not listed as common side effects. In your case, you received the Novavax vaccine and experienced left-sided chest pain and discomfort in the rib area shortly after vaccination. While it’s important to consider that vaccines can cause a range of side effects, the symptoms you described are not typical reactions associated with the Novavax vaccine.

The Novavax vaccine, like other COVID-19 vaccines, can lead to common side effects such as pain at the injection site, fatigue, headache, muscle pain, and fever. However, chest pain is not commonly reported. It’s worth noting that the occurrence of chest pain after vaccination could be coincidental and not directly related to the vaccine itself. Other factors, such as anxiety, muscle strain, or even pre-existing conditions, could contribute to your symptoms.

Given that your symptoms improved after a day of rest, it may suggest that they were not severe or related to a serious condition. However, the fact that you experienced pain during deep breaths and discomfort in the rib area warrants caution. While it could be a benign issue, such as a muscle strain or costochondritis (inflammation of the cartilage connecting a rib to the sternum), it’s essential to rule out any serious conditions, especially if the pain persists or worsens.

If you are experiencing ongoing discomfort, or if you notice any new symptoms such as shortness of breath, significant chest pain, or any other concerning signs, it is advisable to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional can perform a thorough evaluation, which may include a physical examination and possibly imaging studies, to determine the cause of your symptoms.

In summary, while your symptoms may not be typical side effects of the Novavax vaccine, it is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to health concerns. If you feel uncertain or if your symptoms persist, visiting a healthcare provider for an assessment is a prudent choice. They can provide reassurance, a proper diagnosis, and appropriate management if necessary. Remember, your health and peace of mind are paramount, and seeking medical advice is a responsible step to ensure your well-being.

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