Omega 3 and Nosebleeds

Omega-3 essential fatty acids play vital roles in your body, including helping to regulate blood and hormones. They're found in foods such as cold-water fish like salmon and herring, as well as in plant foods such as walnuts and flaxseed. Because omega-3 affects blood clotting, there is concern that it may lead to nosebleeds. When adding them to your diet in supplement form, consult your doctor first, especially if you have a bleeding disorder.

Omega-3 and Blood Clotting

In your body, omega-3 fats --- as well as omega-6 fats --- produce "super hormones" called eicosanoids. They are referred to as super hormones because they control the activity of other hormones in your body. The eicosanoids produced by omega-3 fats help lower inflammation and decrease blood clotting. As such, high doses of omega-3 supplements may increase your risk of bleeding, which is why you will often see precautions about not taking them with blood-thinning medications.

Complications

The risk of bleeding from taking high doses of fish oil or omega-3 supplements isn't limited to nosebleeds. You may also have a higher risk of hemorrhagic stroke, which is also called bleeding stroke. You can have blood in your urine, experience prolonged bleeding if you have a wound or become bruised easily. Because omega-3 increases bleeding time, do not take these supplements before having surgery.

Precautions

To avoid nosebleeds and other bleeding problems caused by taking omega-3 supplements, stick within the recommended intake limits. Get omega-3 by eating at least 3 oz. of oily fish twice a week. However, if your diet is low in fish or high in omega-6 fats from sources such as sunflower, corn or sesame oil, you may need to take an omega-3 supplement. Check the combination of eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid in the supplement. A recommended daily dose for general health is 500 mg of EPA and DHA combined, according to Omega-3 Learning for Health and Medicine, a University of Connecticut website. Speak to your doctor about increasing fish intake or taking supplements if you are pregnant.

Managing a Nosebleed

If you believe omega-3 supplements are to blame for your nosebleed, stop taking them. Most nosebleeds can be effectively treated at home. Start by leaning forward so the blood doesn't run down your throat. Catch any blood with a moist towel or tissue. Apply pressure to the soft part of your nose near the tip, not above the bony part. Breathe through your mouth. Squeeze your nose until the bleeding subsides, usually about five to 15 minutes. Avoid blowing or picking your nose for a few days. Speak to your doctor about resuming omega-3 supplements.