A rash can develop from using fish oil pills and may be an indication that you are experiencing an allergic reaction. In some cases, a rash is the first sign of an allergic reaction that could develop into anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction. Call your doctor immediately if you develop a rash after taking fish oil pills. If you have a known fish allergy, avoid the use of fish oil pills and use a fish-free omega-3 supplement, such as flax oil.
Rash
A rash that forms after taking fish oil pills is a concerning symptoms that will need to be evaluated by a medical professional. In most cases, hives is the rash that develops, causing inflammation and redness in the affected areas of the skin. Hives are elevated welts that are reddish in color and form in various shapes and sizes. They can appear and disappear in a matter of minutes and are very itchy. Hives may be a sign of a severe allergic reaction and this rash typically develops on the face, legs and arms, but my form anywhere on your body. Stop using fish oil pills if you develop hives and talk with your doctor.
Allergic Cause
The reason hives form is because the immune system reacts to the fish oil as if it were an intruding substance that could harm the body. The reaction of the immune system is to fight off the fish oil by creating antibodies, disease-fighting agents. Immunoglobulin E antibodies cause increased levels of histamine and other chemicals throughout the body. Histamine that is released in the skin causes inflammation and can trigger hives or general swelling and itching. Although most fish oil products do not contain fish proteins, trace molecules of fish proteins may be found in the oil.
Anaphylaxis
If you notice that a rash develops on your face along with swelling, shortness of breath and dizziness, you may be experiencing anaphylaxis. During anaphylaxis extreme amounts of histamine are released that cause excessive swelling through your entire body. This sends your body into a state of shock, which could be deadly. Other symptoms of anaphylaxis are coughing, wheezing, a metallic taste in your mouth, lightheadedness, a sudden drop in blood pressure and an increased but faint heart rate.
Consideration
A milk skin rash may develop as a common side effect to taking fish oil supplements. Only your doctor can determine if the rash is a common side effect or the result of an allergic reaction. Skin rashes should always be assessed by a medical doctor or a dermatologist.
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