Fish oil can cause heart palpitations because of an allergic reaction related to fish, or because you have an implanted defibrillator. Heart palpitations are an alarming symptom and you need to discuss them immediately with your doctor. If you develop heart palpitations from consuming fish oil supplements, stop using them and call your health care provider. Heart palpitations cause irregular heartbeat that may increase and decrease periodically.
Fish Oil
Fish oil, made from fish, contains omega-3 fatty acids, which reduce pain and inflammation. Your body does not make omega-3 fatty acids; you can only obtain them through your diet. Doctors use fish oil supplements to treat heart disease, bone weakness, allergies and a wide range of conditions. MedlinePlus states that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has not evaluated the use of fish oil for medical purposes. You need to talk with your doctor before using a fish oil supplement, especially if you have known food allergies.
Allergic Reaction
If you're allergic to fish or seafood you should not use fish oil supplements. Proteins in the flesh of fish trigger the allergies. While fish oil supplements contain no fish proteins, small molecules or by-products of the proteins might remain, according to the Food Allergy Initiative. A mild allergic reaction will cause minor skin irritation, nasal congestion, throat irritation and stomach pain. If you develop heart palpitations from taking a fish oil supplement you may be experiencing a severe allergic reaction called anaphylaxis.
Heart Palpitations
According to MedlinePlus, a common symptom of anaphylaxis is heart palpitations. Anaphylaxis comes on suddenly and may cause life-threatening symptoms that could lead to death. During anaphylaxis, your entire body experiences an allergic reaction that causes your lungs to become constricted, your blood vessels to dilate and soft tissues to swell. This action can also cause lightheadedness, dizziness, a drop in blood pressure, facial or throat swelling and inability to breathe. Call 911 if you develop one or more of these symptoms.
Implanted Defibrillator
Doctors implant defibrillators in patients to prevent irregular heartbeat. Taking fish oil supplements if you have an implanted defibrillator can result in irregular heartbeat. Although clinical testing is lacking, it is better to remain on the safe side and avoid the use of fish oil supplements. Flaxseed oil is an alternative way to obtain omega-3 fatty acids without the risks posed by fish oil.
