Health Issues and Side Effects From Fish Oil

Some people take fish oil capsules in order to increase their intake of Omega-3 fatty acids. According to the Mayo Clinic, an increased intake of Omega-3 provides benefits such as lowering triglycerides and reducing the risk of heart attack, dangerous abnormal heart rhythms, strokes and death in people with known cardiovascular disease. However, these capsules have side effects that may lead to health problems such as increased bleeding, stomach upset and a fishy smell.

Gastrointestinal Problems

• Fish oil capsules can cause stomachaches, heartburn, acid reflux, increased burping and diarrhea. If you already have stomach problems such as acid reflux or irritable bowel syndrome, you are more likely to experience unpleasant side effects. These side effects are more prevalent at higher doses of fish oil. You may be able to minimize these symptoms by starting with a low dose and taking capsules at meals.

Respiratory Problems

• Fish oil capsules can cause upper respiratory tract infections and swelling of the respiratory tract and nasal passages. These side effects are not found in all patients.

Risk of Bleeding

• Omega-3 fatty acids may increase the risk of bleeding. Larger doses of fish oil may increase the risk of hemorrhagic stroke, nose bleed and blood in urine. These capsules decrease platelet aggregation and prolong bleeding time, increasing the risk of complications from bleeding.

Blood Sugar

• Fish oil capsules increase fasting blood glucose levels in patients with Type 2 diabetes. However, scientific evidence suggests that this does not cause long-term side effects. If you suffer from Type 2 diabetes you should check with your doctor before taking fish oil capsules.