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← Return to COVID vaccines and neuropathy
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I developed small fiber neuropathy from the Pfizer vaccine (I believe and two of my doctors, including my neurologist, think it is likely); the temporal proximity to the shot (and no other predisposing conditions or known causes my neurologist tested me for) makes this highly likely. Two weeks after the second dose, I had sudden acute onset of burning in my ankles, which rapidly progressed to my arms, hands and face. Looking back, I recall having some minor side effects after the first dose (like occasional fatigue walking and difficulty standing, both symptoms of small fiber neuropathy). However, because they were mild, I did not attribute them to the vaccine so I proceeded with the second dose three weeks later.
Dr. Waheed, a neurologist at the Univ of Vermont medical school, published a letter to the editor of Muscle Nerve in April 2021 where he describes a clinical case of small fiber neuropathy most likely attributable to the vaccine. And my neurologist tells me that there is some "chatter" among neurologists who are seeing more patients with neuro side effects likely attributable to the vaccine. I self-reported to the VAERs system and recommend everyone do so. (The VAERs folks have reached out to my doctor/the ER room - I thought I had Guillen Barre at first and went there - and requested medical records, so they're on this). It's important to get this data into the system -- not to discredit the vaccine but to make it safer in the long run. It may take time to understand all the side effects.
It is three months since my small fiber neuropathy first emerged. It's no better but I continue to hope this will run its course, as some toxic neuropathies do. I found a cream that works very well for the burning in my feet and arms, and I am on Gabapentin with some relief of some symptoms. I can swim but otherwise can hardly walk or stand. It's hard to accept this because I was a very healthy and active person before this. Overall, however, it's clear that this vaccine is a lifesaver for the vast, vast majority of people. I hope all of you here who have experienced worsened symptoms after the vaccine will improve and overcome this.
Replies to "I developed small fiber neuropathy from the Pfizer vaccine (I believe and two of my doctors,..."
Same story, but few more side effects. Tremor vibration type movement and shaky when standing and moving my hands, etc. Autonomic stuff. I did reach out to Dr. Waheed, that patient is better so there is hope we will all get over this. But, I'm afraid if I get Covid it could be bad!! No one from VAERS contacted me or the VAX registry phone app that check on us. Researchers do think that those of us with SE's may have had a horrible case of Covid if we had not rec'd the vaccine.... all this will sort out hopefully sooner than later.
Side note: It is NOT OK that the govt is try to control misinformation. The entire internet is full of misinformation but they aren't God who knows what is correct and incorrect. They have porn and all sorts of horrible things posted on the internet but that doesn't get pulled off. Way to cure cancer that are not based on science, etc....
I would also love to know what kind of cream you are using. I also developed neuropathy from Pfizer first dose. Pain so bad that I couldn’t bring myself to get the 2nd dose. Can’t imagine how bad it would have gotten if I did! So now I live in not only pain but also fear of catching covid. I’m 3 1/2 months out and on a good note I am just Starting to see some improvement. Wish you well!
Will you please share info about the cream which relieves the burning in your feet and arms?
Hello @ebrinks and welcome to Mayo Clinic Connect. Thank you for joining to share your experience following your vaccine. I think it is great to hear the logic around the vaccine from you all while knowing that you have experienced a change to your health and lifestyle for the last three months. As you said, so much is still unknown so I think it wise for you to remain hopeful.
There are a few members who have asked to know what cream you have found that has provided you some relief so I will let you connect to them and respond.
Can I ask what sort of follow up your neurologist has recommended and also if you have reported your symptoms to VAERS?
Thank you for sharing your experience. I hope your symptoms resolve. I wonder if you would share the cream you found helpful for burning pain. Thanks again.
I believe, as do my doctors, that my SFN was caused by a flu shot 3 years ago. My symptoms have improved I think in part to due to my diet, exercise and supplements. They have not totally resolved but seemed to have possibly caused the onset of Sjögren’s symptoms. My symptoms flared after the 2nd Pfizer vaccine which i did report to Vaers but calmed down eventually leaving me with tinnitus in my left ear. I do not think I will choose to get a booster. i hope your symptoms improve in time and glad you have found something that helps you.
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Can you please tell me what cream you are using to relieve the burning sensation?