Many people take fish oil for conditions such as depression, arthritis, high cholesterol and high blood pressure, and it is generally considered a safe supplement. However, if you are scheduled for surgery, your doctor will probably tell you to avoid fish oil supplements for some time before and after the surgery. This is due to fish oil's action on the blood.
Fish Oil and Your Blood
Fish oil provides omega-3 fatty acids, which are necessary to human health. Omega-3s are anti-inflammatory, which helps keep blood vessels healthy and prevent complications of heart disease. Fish oil also reduces the tendency of the blood to clot, which is helpful if you have had problems with excessive blood clotting or clogged blood vessels, but it can be dangerous when healing from a surgical wound.
Fish Oil and Surgery
Surgery requires an incision, or cut, to allow the surgeon to repair or remove an organ or vessel. Decreased clotting causes excess bleeding during and after surgery. A study released in 2010 by doctors at Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center showed that patients taking fish oil 24 hours or less before surgery were more likely to need a transfusion due to excess bleeding. The doctors advised that all patients discontinue fish oil before surgery to avoid this complication.
Interactions of Fish Oil With Other Blood Thinners
If you are taking an anti-clotting drug such as warfarin, fish oil can increase the effects of the drug. Other common supplements that may decrease the body's ability to clot include garlic, ginger, red clover and turmeric. Aspirin also reduces the body's clotting ability. If you notice easy bruising, frequent nosebleeds or cuts that won't stop bleeding, see your doctor immediately. These can be warning signs of a bleeding disorder.
Consult Your Doctor
If you are scheduled for surgery, let your doctor know about all the drugs and supplements you are taking. All anti-clotting drugs will be discontinued or reduced and you will be asked to stop taking any other blood-thinning substance such as aspirin or fish oil until after the surgery. Your doctor will let you know when it is safe to resume your drugs and supplements.
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