Fish oil can cause itching as a common side effect or may be a sign of an allergic reaction. If you have a known fish allergy, you need to consult with your health care provider before taking fish oil supplements. If you have a fish allergy, you are at greater risk of developing itching and other allergy symptoms. Fish oil supplements help lower triglyceride levels in the body because they contain omega-3 fatty acids, according to Drugs.com. If you are allergic to fish, you may want to use another supplement containing omega-3 fatty acids, such as flax oil supplements.
Fish Oil Itch
Minor skin rashes and general itching are a common side effect of using fish oil supplements. If you're allergic to fish, taking fish oil may trigger an allergic reaction, which could cause life-threatening symptoms. Fish oil supplements are not made from the flesh of the fish, which contains the proteins that trigger an allergic reaction. Although fish oil does not contain fish protein, small molecules of fish protein by-products may be found in the supplement, according to the Food Allergy Initiative. An allergic reaction will cause symptoms to develop quickly after ingesting the supplement.
Cause
Itching from taking fish oil if you have a fish allergy is caused by an increase of histamine in the skin. An allergy to fish occurs when your immune system is hypersensitive to the proteins found in fish. The body fails to identify the proteins as safe for the body and attempts to fight off the proteins by creating immunoglobulin E antibodies. IgE antibodies trigger mast cells, located in soft tissue, to create histamine, according to MayoClinic.com. Histamine is used by the body to prevent infection, but during allergic reaction excessive amounts of histamine cause inflammation and irritation. Histamine created in the skin will cause the skin to become itchy, swollen and red.
Concerning Symptoms
If you notice that you develop itching on your face, accompanied by swelling and hives, you need to call 911. Fish allergies commonly trigger anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction that affects your entire body. Other symptoms that may develop from anaphylaxis include shortness of breath, a metallic taste in the mouth, stomach pain, lightheadedness and dizziness.
Treatment
Report skin itching that develops from taking fish oil supplements to your doctor for further evaluation. Steroid-based creams are commonly used to alleviate skin itching and irritation. If your physician determines that fish oil pills are causing an allergic reaction, she will recommend using a fish-free omega-3 supplement.
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