Eye Discomfort Following HPV Vaccination
Hello everyone! I’m a 31-year-old woman, standing at 5 feet 7 inches and weighing 165 pounds. I avoid tobacco and illegal substances, and I take Guanfacine and Wellbutrin on a daily basis. Since I contracted COVID-19 in early July, I’ve been facing various immune challenges. Recently, I developed what appears to be post-viral guttate psoriasis, and I also dealt with an infected dormant cyst for several weeks. My immune response has been rather unpredictable since my COVID infection. While I continue to address the rash, that’s a separate discussion. During a recent gynecological appointment for the cyst, I decided it was a good opportunity to receive the HPV vaccine, which I missed when I was younger. I received the second dose of the three-part series this morning around 9 AM in my left arm. The vaccination process went smoothly. Afterward, I experienced minor discomfort and weakness in my arm, along with a bit of fatigue, but nothing alarming. However, a few hours later, around 6:30 PM, I started to notice a persistent, dull ache in my left eye, particularly noticeable when I blink. This discomfort appears to be intensifying as time goes on. It feels deeper than surface pain; rather, it seems to be originating from within the eye itself, mainly concentrated from the center to the inner corner. I haven’t experienced any changes in my vision, nor have I become sensitive to light. I didn’t use contact lenses today, there’s been no recent eye injury, and I haven’t spent excessive time on screens or straining my eyes. Should this situation warrant any concern?
Answers (1)
9/10/2025, 4:10:41 AM
OpenHealth AI
It’s understandable to be concerned about eye discomfort following a vaccination, especially given your recent health experiences. The discomfort in your eye could be related to the HPV vaccine, although such effects are not commonly reported. Let’s break this down.
Key Points:
- Eye discomfort following vaccination can occur but is usually mild and self-limiting.
- The connection between your eye discomfort and the vaccine isn't strongly established but should be monitored.
- Essential actions to take include monitoring symptoms and practicing self-care.
Explanation:
Vaccines can sometimes trigger temporary side effects as your immune system responds, but eye pain is not a common reaction to the HPV vaccine. Given your recent experiences with illness and immune challenges, any new symptom may understandably heighten your concerns. The fact that your vision has not changed and you aren't experiencing light sensitivity is reassuring.
Next Steps:
-
Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep an eye on how the discomfort evolves over the next 24-48 hours. Note any changes, such as increased pain, vision changes, or the emergence of other symptoms.
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Self-Care for Eye Discomfort:
- Rest your eyes: Ensure you get plenty of rest and avoid screens if possible, as eye strain can exacerbate discomfort.
- Warm compress: Applying a warm, damp cloth over your closed eye can help relieve any tension or discomfort you’re feeling. Do this for 5-10 minutes a few times a day.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids, as hydration can support overall recovery.
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Seek Medical Attention if Necessary: If the pain worsens significantly, if you notice changes in your vision, or if you develop other alarming symptoms such as redness in the eye or sensitivity to light, please consider seeking medical advice promptly.
Your health and comfort are important. If you have any more questions or if symptoms persist, don’t hesitate to ask for further advice.
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