Side Effects of Fish Oil

Fish oil capsules are sold at stores and can be taken without a prescription, though it is advised to consult your doctor first. It is commonly thought that fish oil may have some effect on reducing depression and anxiety. Others suggest it may lower blood pressure and reduce a patient's risk of heart attack or other heart-related problems. Research is still being conducted to determine the side effects of fish oil. Find out the known side effects of fish oil, as reported by patients of the product.

Patient Health

• Before taking fish oil, consider any preexisting conditions you may have, or conditions such as pregnancy that could occur while taking fish oil. It is possible for fish oil to raise blood sugar levels, though extremely unlikely. Diabetic patients should take caution and watch for signs of illness while taking fish oil. Caution should be used by patients who have higher risks of bleeding. Expectant mothers should consult their doctor or wait until after pregnancy to take fish oil.

Dosage

• Typically, a high dosage is the only reason side effects occur from taking fish oil. The recommended dosage, either on the bottle or as advised by a health care provider, should be followed. Never take more than recommended, and avoid using the product any longer than your doctor advises. The chances of negative side effects go up with long-term use.

Common Side Effects

• There are several common side effects that can occur while taking fish oil. They are not cause for an emergency room visit, but should be monitored. Stop taking fish oil if side effects continue, and consult your doctor for advice. An upset stomach or diarrhea may occur, or an odd taste in the mouth. Belching can occur, with or without these symptoms. Back pain is also a side effect, and a sudden skin rash may occur during treatment.

Severe Side Effects

• Higher doses of fish oil put the patient at a higher risk of experiencing side effects. Diarrhea can become severe, along with heartburn and stomach pain. Slowly increasing the dosage of fish oil and always taking the capsules with food may reduce the some effects. Fish oil has caused swelling in the nose for some, and upper respiratory tract infections in others. Finally, taking fish oil for extended periods of time stretching over several months can cause a vitamin E deficiency in the patient.

Emergency Care

• Certain side effects require emergency care. If you experience any of these while taking fish oil, go to the emergency room at your hospital. These side effects include fever, aches, flu-like symptoms, chest pain, chills or an uneven heartbeat. Drugs such as birth control pills and blood thinners can interact with fish oil. Mention these to your doctor before starting fish oil treatment, and at the hospital if you require emergency care.