Story by: Erica Coghill on March 25, 2021
Swollen lymph nodes and the COVID-19 vaccine have been an issue for many, but the harmless side effect is causing alarm as some mistake the temporary underarm lump for a tumor.
Swollen lymph nodes are a normal vaccine side effect, as the body produces antibodies against the coronavirus that causes COVID-19.
Lymph nodes are a part of the body’s immune system, so when you receive a vaccine, those lymph nodes can become inflamed as the body develops an immune response to the virus you’re being vaccinated against.
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The swollen lymph nodes are appearing on the same side of the body as the injection.
If you are due for your annual mammogram, physicians advise scheduling with the side effect in mind. Schedule your mammogram prior to the first dose of the vaccine or four to six weeks after the second dose. If you have a new concern that requires a mammogram for a closer look, do not delay that appointment.
Doctors also advise that if you’ve had breast cancer on one side of your body, to receive the COVID-19 vaccine on the opposite side.
If you have a lymph node that is getting larger or swelling is not going away, contact your doctor.
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