Prenatal vitamins are recommended for women who are trying to conceive, are pregnant or are breastfeeding. Prenatal vitamins ensure that you and your baby are supplied with needed nutrition to develop life, according to Drugs.com. Not all prenatal vitamins contain the same vitamins, minerals and supplements. It is important to use prenatal vitamins and any other supplement under a doctor's care while pregnant. If you experience unpleasant symptoms after taking prenatal vitamins, call your doctor.
Background
An allergic reaction to prenatal vitamins is rare, but it could happen to anyone. Taking a supplement of any kind puts you at risk for an allergic reaction. An allergic reaction transpires because of a malfunction in the immune system. The immune system mistakes the prenatal vitamin as a harmful substance and begins to defend the body. Part of the body's defense is the formation of antibodies that fight off the allergen. The antibodies trigger mast cells to produce histamine, a chemical that causes inflammation in soft tissue.
Symptoms
Symptoms will develop within a few minutes or up to an hour after ingestion. Symptoms will vary from person to person. Common symptoms include respiratory complications, nasal issues, skin rashes and gastrointestinal difficulties, according to HealthTree. You may find it difficult to breathe and have wheezing and coughing. Your sinuses may swell, leading to nasal congestion, sneezing, a runny nose and postnasal drip. Skin rashes include dermatitis, hives and general itching. Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and cramping are common digestive complications.
Fish Oil Consideration
Many prenatal vitamins include a fish oil supplement for increased intake of omega 3. MedlinePlus states that fish oil supplements are not recommended for people with a fish allergy. Fish oil supplements do not typically contain fish proteins, but traces of the proteins may remain in the fish oil, causing an allergic reaction. If you've been diagnosed with a fish allergy, talk with your doctor about alternatives, such as a plant-derived omega 3 supplement.
Anaphylactic Warning
Drugs.com warns that severe allergies to prenatal vitamins can cause anaphylaxis, a rare but potentially deadly allergic condition. During a severe allergic reaction, your airways constrict, your blood pressure drops and your heart races. If you develop symptoms, such as dizziness, fainting and confusion, call 911.
Testing
Your doctor may recommend specific allergy tests to determine the cause of the allergic reaction. Allergy tests will use your skin and blood to observe if your body produces IgE antibodies when the prenatal vitamin is introduced.
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