Could Ringing In Your Ears Be A Side Effect Of The COVID-19 Vaccine?

Have you ever heard an unexplained ringing in your ears? Most people experience this sensation at least once in their lives after being exposed to a very loud sound. However, other people experience a persistent ringing in their ears that lasts for long periods of time and/or comes back frequently (via Mayo Clinic). People with mild tinnitus may not notice the issue while others may find it extremely irritating. If you're concerned about ringing in your ears, schedule a visit with your doctor.

Tinnitus can have many underlying causes including ear infections and head injuries. According to NBC News, some people are afraid that the COVID-19 vaccine may cause or worsen symptoms of tinnitus. However, several studies on the topic have not found a clear connection between the two. There is some evidence that being diagnosed with COVID-19 itself can make symptoms of tinnitus worse in people who already deal with the condition. Coronavirus infections have also been linked to hearing loss.

If you have not been vaccinated against COVID-19 yet, now is the time. Getting vaccinated and getting your booster shot decreases your risk of getting COVID-19, spreading it to others, getting sick enough that you require hospitalization, and dying from the virus (via CDC). Like any vaccine, the COVID-19 vaccine comes with some potential side effects. According to CNN, many people experience swollen lymph nodes in the underarm area after getting their shot. This is a normal reaction that should go away on its own in a few weeks.

Other side effects of the COVID-19 vaccine include tiredness, muscle aches, fever, and chills. You may also experience pain, redness, or swelling on your arm where you were given the shot. Some people may also experience what is called "COVID arm," which is where the skin around where your shot was administered becomes red and swollen (via Yale Medicine). Like other side effects, this should dissipate on its own after a few days.