Individuals with fish allergies may discover that the source of their illness extends to fish products, including fish oil. Many people take fish oil capsules for the health benefits of the omega-3 fatty acids that they contain. While fish do not produce these substances, they eat creatures that do. Most adverse responses to fish products produce uncomfortable nasal and digestive health effects. Rare allergic reactions to fish oil dietary supplements can generate serious allergy symptoms that involve the cardiovascular and respiratory systems.
Function
An abnormal immune system response to certain proteins in fish cause allergic reactions to fish and fish products to occur in some people. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, in these events, the body mistakenly releases histamines and white blood cells to fight off nonexistent threats. This creates the inflammatory conditions that foster allergy symptoms in various parts of the body.
Features
Fish allergies can affect the eyes, skin and respiratory and digestive tracts. The UM Medical Center lists itchy eyes, mouth, throat and skin among initial health problems. Nasal congestion and nausea often appear next, followed by more severe digestive upset and abdominal pain. In addition to these common allergy symptoms, the cardiovascular system may become involved to produce anaphylaxis, a response that threatens overall metabolism and can lead to death.
Effects
As inflammation affects the mucous membranes, the eyes may get irritated and the mouth, throat and skin may swell. The UM Medical Center notes that swelling in the nasal passages can make swallowing and breathing difficult, This condition may be joined by a drop in blood pressure, creating a cardiac and respiratory decline toward anaphylactic shock.
Warning
While the incidence of anaphylaxis is rare and allergic reactions to fish oil very rare, as per the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, they still do occur. Because fatal conditions can arise in moments, the UM Medical Center suggests calling 911 as soon as patients recognize anaphylactic allergy symptoms.
These include an uneven pulse, weakness, shortness of breath and wheezing. Fainting, respiratory arrest and death can follow.
Theories
Medical professionals consider fish oil capsules safe for most people to take, as the protein content in these already small doses is thought to be negligible. The FDA, however considers the potential for allergic reaction significant enough to require strict labeling that specifies fish ingredients, rather than the broader "omega-3 fatty acids" term. Likewise, the ACAAI acknowledges the possibility of patients with extreme fish allergies becoming ill from ingesting any fish product. The ACAAI counsels avoidance of these supplements by people who have fish allergies.
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