Salmon Fish Oil & Skin Rash

Cause
Skin Rash Symptoms
Other Symptoms
Testing
Warning

Written by Diane Marks

05 December, 2018

Fact Checked

Almost 7 million Americans suffer from a fish allergy, according to the Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network 1 2 3. A skin rash resulting from touching or eating salmon fish oil is a sign of an allergic reaction to the proteins found in salmon. Some of the most common fish that cause an allergic skin rash are salmon, cod, tuna, bass, sardines, trout and swordfish, according to Beyond Allergy 1. A severe allergic reaction to salmon fish oil can lead to anaphylactic shock, a life-threatening allergic condition. Talk with an allergist if you suspect you have a salmon allergy.

Cause

According to the Mayo Clinic, a salmon fish oil allergy is an overreaction of the immune system to the proteins found in salmon 1 2. The protein enters the body and is mistaken by the immune system as a dangerous substance, such as a virus and builds a resistance to the salmon protein. Antibodies are formed to fight off the proteins, which trigger histamine production in mast cells. Histamine is a chemical in the body that causes inflammation in soft tissue, such as the sinuses, the lungs and the skin.

According to the Mayo Clinic, a salmon fish oil allergy is an overreaction of the immune system to the proteins found in salmon 1.
The protein enters the body and is mistaken by the immune system as a dangerous substance, such as a virus and builds a resistance to the salmon protein.

Skin Rash Symptoms

Salmon & Skin Rash

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Skin rash symptoms from a salmon fish oil allergy are inflammation in the skin, swelling, irritation and itching 1. Hives develop within a few minutes after consuming salmon, according to Beyond Allergy 1. Hives form in patches of skin and causes raised welts to appear that are flat and clustered. Another common rash that develops is eczema, forming small, red blisters that can weep and crust over. Eczema also forms patches of dry skin that appears leathery. Contact dermatitis may occur after the individual touches salmon fish oil.

Skin rash symptoms from a salmon fish oil allergy are inflammation in the skin, swelling, irritation and itching 1.
Another common rash that develops is eczema, forming small, red blisters that can weep and crust over.

Other Symptoms

Other symptoms that may accompany a reactionary rash to salmon are tingling in the lips or mouth, shortness of breathe and nasal congestion. Nasal congestion can cause sneezing, congestion and postnasal drip.

Testing

Symptoms of Salmon Allergy

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If you experience a rash after eating salmon, consider participating in allergy tests for a proper diagnosis. Skin tests and blood tests may be performed to confirm a salmon allergy. After diagnosis, your doctor may recommend removing salmon and other fish from your diet.