Definition:
Nickel is one of the most common metals that is found in majority of everyday items, such as belt buckles, eyeglasses frames, jewelry, etc. Nickel allergy is a sensitivity to products that contain nickel, triggering an allergic reaction upon contact to skin or what is known as contact dermatitis. This is a type of skin inflammation that results to the swelling and reddening of the skin.
Diagnosis:
Diagnosis is mainly based on the symptoms evident on the skin that has come inh contact with nickel.
Treatment:
There is actually no cure for nickel allergy. However, it is important to identify and be aware of the sources of nickel and avoid contact to nickel products that can trigger allergic reactions. Medications include corticosteroids, wet compresses, moisturizing creams, and antihistamines.
Symptoms and Signs:
Symptoms of nickel allergy include the development of red and swollen rashes on the skin in about 10-15 minutes from direct contact. It can also cause watery blisters in that causes extreme discomfort and requires medications.
If you have a nickel allergy, exposure with items containing nickel may cause a tingly, itching feeling as soon as 20 minutes after contact with your skin.
Causes:
It is still largely unknown why there are some people who develop sensitivity to nickel. Like any other form of allergy, it is caused by a malfunction of the body's immune system that causes it to react and release histamine to protect the body from an allergen , in this cases, the nickel.
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