Can Fish Oil Cause Body Tingling?

Can Fish Oil Cause Body Tingling?
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Fish oil can be taken either as a supplement or by eating certain kinds of fatty fish. The oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which may be beneficial for treating such conditions as high cholesterol and protecting against heart disease. Body tingling is not a common side effect of fish oil, though it can cause other adverse reactions, as well as interact with certain conditions. Ask your doctor before you begin consuming fish oil.

Uses and Forms

People take fish oil for a variety of reasons. It can lower both your blood pressure and blood triglyceride levels, as well as help prevent cardiovascular diseases. It may also help those who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis, menstrual pain and kidney problems. If you are thinking about taking fish oil, consult your doctor, and she can help you determine what form and dosage are best for you. In addition to taking fish oil capsules, you can also ingest the oil by eating fish such as mackerel, salmon, mullet, anchovy, herring and trout.

Side Effects

The most common side effects of fish oil supplements are burping, bad breath, acid indigestion, bloating, nausea, diarrhea, rashes and nosebleeds. If you consume the oil in excess of 3 grams a day, it may increase your risk of bleeding. You may also have an allergic reaction if you have an allergy or sensitivity to fish. While body tingling is not a common side effect of fish oil, seek medical attention if you experience it or any other adverse reactions to the supplements.

Precautions

Fish oil can interact with certain conditions, such as bipolar disorder or depression. In rare instances, people with these conditions who ingest fish oil may experience mania, restlessness or a type of skin tingling known as formication, which is a hallucination that insects are crawling on the skin. People with liver disease should take caution with fish oil, as it can heighten the risk of bleeding, and those with diabetes should as well, since fish oil may make it difficult to regulate your blood sugar levels. To avoid potential interactions, tell your doctor about any conditions you have or medications you are on prior to taking fish oil.

Additional Considerations

Never begin taking new supplements or eating new foods without first asking your doctor about them. Not only can fish oil interact with medications and conditions, but it can also interfere with the levels of certain vitamins and minerals in your body. If you experience sudden or unexplained body tingling, see your health care provider. He can help you determine what is causing this problem and suggest remedies.

References

Article reviewed by DanL Last updated on: Sep 1, 2011

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