Allergy to nickel
Nickel allergy is one of the most common forms of allergic contact dermatitis Contact dermatitis is an itchy rash that usually occurs after skin contact with a harmless substance.
Nickel allergies are often associated with earrings and other jewelry, especially body piercings. However, nickel is also found in many everyday items, such as coins, zippers, cell phones, and eyeglass frames.
Allergy to nickel can be found in patients of any age Nickel allergy usually develops after long-term contact with nickel-containing objects Treatment may relieve symptoms caused by allergies After developing a nickel allergy, you will be permanently sensitive to the metal and need to avoid it for a month
An allergic reaction is a mistaken reaction of the immune system to a harmless substance Normally, the immune system fights off bacteria, viruses, and other toxic substances.
In a nickel allergy, the body reacts to nickel and possibly other metals such as cobalt and palladium. In other words, it mistakenly perceives nickel as some harmful substance When the body reacts to a specific trigger (allergen), in this case nickel, the immune system will always be sensitive to that allergen. Therefore, any time you come in contact with nickel, the immune system will develop an allergic response
Nickel hypersensitivity may develop from first contact with nickel or as a result of repeated contact. The cause of nickel allergy is unknown, although sensitivity to the metal is partially determined by genetics
Items containing nickel Nickel allergies are most often caused by earrings and other jewelry, such as piercings, that contain nickel. Sources of nickel:
- Piercings
- Other jewelry, including rings, bracelets, necklaces, etc. Sh
- Watch straps
- Fastening zippers, buttons, bra fasteners, etc. Sh
- Belt buckle
- Eyeglass frame
- Coin
- Metal tool
- Mobile phone
- Key
If you are allergic to nickel and touch an object containing nickel, an allergic reaction (contact dermatitis) usually occurs 12-48 hours after contact. The reaction may last 2-4 weeks Symptoms of contact dermatitis usually appear where the nickel comes into contact, but can appear anywhere on the body. Symptoms of a nickel allergy:
- A rash or bumps on acne
- Itching that may be severe
- Discoloration or redness of the skin
- Dry patches like burns on the skin
- Blisters and fluid discharge in severe cases
If you have already been diagnosed with a nickel allergy and you are sure that the rash is caused by nickel, use the same treatments that your doctor prescribed in the past If the treatment does not work, consult a doctor If you suspect that the affected area may be at risk of developing an infection, contact your doctor immediately Signs of infection include pain, redness, warmth, or pus in the affected area
