The Food Allergy Initiative states that while there are no fish proteins in fish oil supplements, some molecules from fish proteins may be found in the fish oil. It is not recommended for people with a fish allergy to use fish oil supplements on a daily basis. Someone with an allergy to fish may develop hives and other allergic reactions from taking fish oil supplements. Discuss the use of fish oil supplements with a doctor before use.
Fish Allergy
A fish allergy is more common in adults but can affect anyone at any age, according to the Cleveland Clinic. A fish allergy is a malfunction of the immune system to properly identify the proteins in fish as safe. The immune system attempts to attack the fish proteins and causes various reactions throughout the body. Hives is a common skin reaction of a fish allergy that can be caused by taking fish oil supplements.
Hives
Increased histamine levels in the skin cause hives, an allergic skin reaction. Hives are itchy raised welts on the skin with defined borders, according to MayoClinic.com, and can develop anywhere on the body, but rarely leave any lasting marks. Hives can move, or migrate, spreading to large areas of the body. If the skin is scratched excessively, it can leave the skin irritated and cracked, vulnerable to infection.
Other Reactions
The Cleveland Clinic states that other reactions from an allergy to fish oil include nasal reactions, asthma reactions and other skin reactions. Nasal reactions include sneezing, a runny nose, postnasal drip, nasal congestion and sinus pressure pain. Asthma reactions result in breathing difficulty, shortness of breath, coughing and wheezing. Another common skin reaction caused by a fish oil allergy is eczema. Eczema is a chronic condition involving allergic reactions and dry skin.
Avoidance
If a patient is diagnosed with a fish allergy, she is encouraged to avoid all products containing fish or fish by-products. Do not consume fish oil supplements or other foods containing fish. Replace a fish oil supplement with a vegetarian omega-3 supplement derived from plants.
Treatment
Treat hives related to a fish oil reaction by removing fish oil from the diet. Oral and topical antihistamines help prevent excessive histamine levels in the body during a hive break-out. Over-the-counter hydrocortisone creams and prescription corticosteroid lotions can reduce inflammation and relieve the itch.
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