Fish oil allergy symptoms are the same as allergic reaction symptoms to fish. A fish allergy is caused by a hypersensitivity of the immune system to particular proteins found in different parts of a fish, according to the Food Allergy Initiative. Most fish oil supplements are free off allergy-causing fish proteins, but molecules from some of the proteins may be present. MedlinePlus recommends that a patient with a known fish allergy avoid the use of fish oil supplements. Talk with a doctor before using any supplement.
About Fish Oil
Fish oil is used to treat certain conditions, such as high blood pressure, heart disease and ADHD, according to MedlinePlus. Fish oil can be acquired by eating fish or taking a daily supplement. Fish oil does not have any significant side effects on healthy adults, when taken as directed. Too much fish oil can increase the risk of having a stroke.
Common Allergy Symptoms
Common allergy symptoms from fish oil include nasal congestion, hives and asthmatic reactions. Nasal congestion is the result of increased histamine levels in the sinus cavity that leads to inflammation. The swollen nasal cavities cut off the normal airflow through the nose. Hives can develop on the skin, causing inflammation and severe itchiness. If hives are scratched excessively, it can crack skin, leaving it vulnerable to infection. Asthmatic symptoms include wheezing, shortness of breathe and chest discomfort, according to MayoClinic.com.
Severe Symptoms
Symptoms that a patient should pay close attention to are swelling of the lips, tongue or throat; lightheadedness or an accelerated heart rate, according to the Cleveland Clinic. The swelling of the lips, tongue or throat is the first sign of a severe allergic reaction. If the throat swells too much, it could cut off the person's ability to breathe and lead to death. Lightheadedness and an accelerated heart rate are symptoms of anaphylactic shock and could also cause death.
Treatment
Symptoms of a fish oil allergy are treated with medications. MayoClinic.com states that minor fish oil allergy symptoms can be treated with antihistamines. Antihistamines block the body from producing high levels of histamine that cause allergy symptoms. For severe allergic reactions, a shot of epinephrine may be required to avoid complications.
Considerations
Someone with a fish oil allergy should wear a medical bracelet, identifying the condition, according to MayoClinic.com. If someone experiences symptoms of anaphylactic shock, call 911 to get immediate medical attention.
