Nasal congestion is not a common side effect of taking fish oil supplements. Congestion in your sinuses or lungs may be a sign of an allergic reaction to the supplement. Any time you take a new supplement, you are at risk of developing an allergic reaction. Because fish oil supplements are not regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, talk with your doctor before taking fish oil pills.
Fish Oil Allergy
MedlinePlus states that some people who have an allergy to fish may develop an allergic reaction while taking fish oil pills. Although fish oil supplements do not contain fish proteins that typically trigger a fish allergy, small molecules may be present in fish oil that can cause an allergy. An allergic reaction to fish oil will cause inflammation throughout different parts of your body, resulting in common food allergy symptoms. During an allergic reaction certain chemicals are produced that cause inflammation and swelling in soft tissues. Most congestion in the lungs, sinus cavities and in the inner ears is the result of inflammation.
Sinus Congestion
Sinus congestion is a common symptom associated with a fish allergy. The sinus cavity swells and blocks off your ability to breathe through your nose and drain mucus. Sinus congestion can cause sinus headaches, facial tenderness, pressure in the head and post-nasal drip. Most sinus pain develops behind the eyes, in the forehead and behind the cheek bones, according to MayoClinic.com. Post-nasal drip occurs when blocked mucus cannot drain from the nostrils, creating a constant dripping down the back of the throat. Sinus congestion is most effectively treated by avoiding fish products and taking a decongestant.
Lung Congestion
Inflammation and swelling in the lungs can cause chest tightness, pain in the chest, wheezing and coughing. Wheezing is a high-pitched sound that’s created by constriction in your windpipe. As your airways swell you will become short of breath, have trouble breathing and may become lightheaded. If you develop severe chest pain or cannot breathe, call for emergency medical care. In some cases, a fish-related allergic reaction can lead to a severe allergic reaction, resulting in life-threatening symptoms.
Ear Congestion
A common result of sinus congestion and an allergic reaction is ear congestion. When your sinus cavity becomes backed-up with mucus, it can cause inflammation and trapped fluid in your inner ears. This can cause temporary hearing loss, ear pain and a popping sound in the ears. Ear congestion is commonly treated with decongestant nasal sprays and antihistamines.
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