An irregular heartbeat that develops after you eat flax seeds is an alarming symptom that may be a sign of a severe allergic reaction. Flax seeds are commonly used in baked goods, such as breads and crackers but may also be consumed whole. Flax seed is also sold in supplement form to increase your daily intake of omega-3 fatty acids and is used to prevent and treat certain conditions related to blood pressure and cholesterol, according to MedlinePlus. Stop consuming flax seeds if you develop irregular heartbeats.
Common Side Effects
The most common side effects of ingesting flax seed include gas, nausea and mild diarrhea, according to Drugs.com. Flax sees contain a high amount of fiber and may increase the amount of bowel movements you have in one day and trigger other gastrointestinal complications. You may develop gas, bloating, stomach pain, constipation, diarrhea, and a stomach ache. Flax seeds absorb water in the digestive system and need to be consumed with enough water. An irregular heart beat is not a common side effect of flax seeds.
Irregular Heartbeat
An irregular heart beat that forms after you ingest flax seeds is most likely the result of an allergic reaction. A severe allergic reaction can cause a wide range of systematic reactions to develop in your body. You may develop signs in your digestive system, skin, respiratory system and cardiovascular system. Any time you notice your heart rate change you should call your doctor. An irregular heartbeat may lead to further complications, such as a drop in blood pressure and death if not treated.
Anaphylaxis
Anaphylaxis is the medical term used to describe a severe, whole-body allergic reaction. MayoClinic.com explains that during this type of allergic reaction, the immune system overreacts to the proteins in flax seeds and responds to them as if they are harmful. This triggers a flood of chemicals, such as histamine and immunoglobulin E antibodies. These chemicals cause inflammation and constriction of soft tissue throughout your body. When these chemicals enter your blood stream in large quantities and at a fast rate, your body may experience a state of shock.
Treatment
Contact emergency medical personal immediately if you develop an increase in your heart rate, lightheadedness, throat swelling, the inability to breathe and hives, according to Drugs.com. These are signs of anaphylactic shock. Medical professionals will inject you with epinephrine to alleviate your symptoms. The only effective long-term treatment for an allergy to flax seeds is avoidance.
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