Signs & Symptoms of Fish Oil Allergy

According to the American Heart Association, fish contains Omega-3 fatty acids that help lessen the danger of arrhythmias, which can result in death. Fish oil is an excellent source of Omega-3 fatty acids. However, because fish oil is made from fish, if you have an allergy to fish you will likely have an allergy to fish oil. Knowing the signs and symptoms of a fish-oil allergy can help you know when to seek immediate medical attention.

Hives

• One of the most common symptoms of an allergic reaction is hives. Hives are an eruption of small bumps on the surface of the skin. The more severe the case of hives, the more bumps appear. The hives can vary in size anywhere from the size of a pencil eraser up to the size of a dinner plate. If several hives join together they will make larger growths, known as plaques. Generally hives set in suddenly and can last up to an entire day. They are red and cause mild to severe itching. Hives can be found anywhere on the body.

Facial Swelling

• When hives are found around the face, it can cause the face to swell. Usually when hives are found around the face they are deeper than the surface of the skin like a hive would be. These swellings can be found around the eyes, the lips, the tongue and even the throat. Once the throat and tongue begin to swell, it can block your airway, causing difficulty breathing.

Anaphylaxis

• When swelling occurs in the mouth, throat and tongue, it can block your airways. This is often termed anaphylaxis. It is also marked by generalized hives, low blood pressure and dilated blood vessels. All of these symptoms can lead to shock, which can kill you if left untreated. When your body is first exposed to the fish oil, if you have an allergy, your immune system will begin to develop antibodies against it. Once the fish oil is reintroduced to the body, the awaiting antibodies begin to attack it, releasing histamines that result in hives, facial swelling and anaphylaxis. Other symptoms that may accompany anaphylaxis are abdominal cramps and pains, vomiting and diarrhea. If you believe you are experiencing symptoms of anaphylaxis, you should seek medical attention immediately.