Connect
← Return to Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR): Meet others & Share Your Story
Discussion
Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR): Meet others & Share Your Story
Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) | Last Active: Jan 27 8:38am | Replies (1879)Comment receiving replies
I experienced a very severe and disabling flare of PMR within that began within days after I received the first dose of the Pfizer vaccine for Covid-19. Not realizing that my symptoms were related to the vaccine, I went ahead with the second dose, which led to complete loss of function lasting several months. From the information now available, it appears that I will need a booster shot to ensure further immunity against the virus. I am wondering if a switch to the Johnson and Johnson shot, which is made using a more traditional technique, might prevent another PMR flare. I realize that no one yet has answers to many questions surrounding the virus and the vaccines against it, but I would be interested in any discussions, opinions or insight offered. Thanks in advance to anyone willing to share their thoughts on this.
Replies to "I experienced a very severe and disabling flare of PMR within that began within days after..."
Connect
It is my understanding that with an autoimmune disease our immune systems are working overtime and attacking us rather than building immunity as it normally does. For this reason I chose not to get the Covid vaccine concerned about making things worse as far as PMR symptoms. This doesn't mean I don't have some immunity without the vaccine. Unfortunately, researchers haven't studied this aspect that I know of. As a result, I continue the strict protoccols that were recommended before we had the vaccine. Mask up and keep my distance.
Mayo Clinic recommends that all eligible people to get the COVID vaccine.
Stay up-to-date with the latest information and medical evidence by visiting (and revisiting) Mayo Clinic's Vaccine Guide website:
– Vaccine Guide https://www.mayoclinic.org/coronavirus-covid-19/vaccine
Also see Can I get a COVID-19 vaccine if I have an existing health condition? https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/coronavirus/in-depth/coronavirus-vaccine/art-20484859
Yes, if you have an existing health condition you can get a COVID-19 vaccine — as long as you haven't had an allergic reaction to a first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine or any of its ingredients. But there is limited information about the safety of the COVID-19 vaccines in people who have weakened immune systems or autoimmune conditions.
COVID-19 vaccines also might not fully protect people from COVID-19 who have a weakened immune system that is caused by HIV, certain conditions or medications. It might be necessary to continue taking precautions.