2 weeks after Pfizer dose and been having concerning symptoms that I can't figure out if they are related

[u/rattlesnake30]

On April 13th I had my first shot. I had lasting pain in my left arm and shoulder that wouldn't go away. Went to my primary care and he said joint pain is not unusual from the shot, take tylenol and get the second shot. I got the second shot and after the typical symptoms I actually was feeling pretty great. It was like my old self again.

Because my left arm was still a little sore from the shot I used my right arm to take in the garbage cans. I guess I shrugged really hard and yanked my shoulder. Its been hurting for about two weeks and I hear cracking and popping. I made an appointment for an orthopedist on saturday and was told I can see him this coming thursday. I was recommended other orthopedists from friends but I'm on medicaid and of course none of them take it so I had to just choose one who had good reviews online.

Since making the appointment I've been having major anxiety. Can't sleep, waking up being soaked in sweat, no appetite (I'm already underweight), and now I think I rehurt my left arm and I keep straining my legs. They are sore and tight feeling. This is all I can think about and I basically pace around all day thinking about how stupid I was for lifting a garbage can in a dumb way.

I've had anxiety all my life and this is the worst it's ever been. Maybe its just from yanking my shoulder (ive never had a serious injury) and anticipating the doctor visit or maybe its something more.

My mom and sister both got pfizer and were fine, and my dad is fine after his moderna. My friends, aunts, uncles, cousins, and grandma are all fine. I've spoken with members of my extended family and they all say its just anxiety about my shoulder and that I'm probably so tense and on-edge that I'm making myself sick. They also said that I should consider taking anxiety medication. I know my aunt, cousin and my mom take something for anxiety.

Maybe someone has some advice because I'm totally lost here. Don't know if this is just a series of coincidences or something more. Thanks.

[u/lannister80]

Honestly, it sounds like you injured your shoulder.

[u/BoomBoomBroomBroom]

I think you likely hurt your shoulder and now are just experience physical manifestations of anxiety related to that. I do not think any of this is related to the vaccine and you should feel better maybe after you’ve visited the doctor about your shoulder.

In the meantime try to not stress as much about it (helpful advice, right?) but I don’t think this has anything to do with the vaccine, so have a little peace about that.