If you have pre-existing conditions, taking fish oil supplements may cause heart palpitations. MedlinePlus states that if you have an implanted defibrillator, taking fish oil supplements may cause irregular heart beats. If you don't have an implanted defibrillator, irregular heart beats may be a sign of an extreme allergic reaction that could lead to death. Stop taking fish oil supplements if you develop an increased heart rate, irregular heart rate or a faint heart rate. If you have been diagnosed with a fish allergy, you may experience an allergic reaction from fish oil pills.
Heart Rate
An irregular heart rate is a sign of anaphylaxis, according to MayoClinic.com. Anaphylaxis is an allergic reaction that affects the entire body. An allergic reaction is triggered by a mistake of the immune system. If your immune system identifies the fish oil as a dangerous substance, it will unleash an attack against the supplement to protect the body. This can cause significant reactions in the body that can lead to a state of shock. Anaphylactic shock can cause your throat to swell, your blood pressure to drop and your heart rate to increase but become very faint.
Anaphylaxis Consideration
Anaphylaxis can develop within a few minutes of taking fish oil. Other symptoms that you need to be aware of are a feeling of warmth, the feeling of a lump in your throat, skin reactions, hives, eczema, flushed skin, pale skin, general itching, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fainting, lightheadedness, dizziness and wheezing. These symptoms are alarming. You need to call 911 immediately for emergency assistance. You will need a injection of epinephrine to treat anaphylactic shock.
Fish Allergy
An allergic reaction may occur if you're allergic to fish. The Food Allergy Initiative states that while most fish oil doesn't contain fish proteins that cause a fish allergy, small particles or by-products of fish proteins may be present in the supplement. A tiny amount of fish protein can trigger a fish allergy. Fish allergies are commonly associated with anaphylaxis. MedlinePlus advises people with a fish allergy to not take fish oil supplements.
Consideration
If you have an implanted defibrillator or you are allergic to fish, you can use fish-free supplements instead of fish oil pills. Flax oil and other vegetable-based oil contain the same benefits of omega-3 fatty acids. Talk with your doctor about the safety of using these other supplements.
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