We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Health

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What Are the Signs of an Allergic Reaction to Nickel?

Lainie Petersen
By
Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 11,037
References
Share

Symptoms of an allergic reaction to nickel include the development of a rash, itching, and in some cases fluid-filled blisters. People who experience an allergic reaction to nickel may also notice general skin irritation, swelling, as well as the development of dry skin patches. These symptoms often occur on areas of the skin where the sufferer wears jewelry, as nickel is a commonly used material in many different types of jewelry. Allergy symptoms can also be triggered by an individual touching nickel and then touching his eyes or other body parts. While an allergic reaction to nickel can typically can be resolved with over-the-counter medications, there is always the potential for infection, which requires prompt medical attention.

Nickel allergies are relatively common, and once a person becomes allergic to nickel, he or she typically will remain so for the rest of his or her life. People who are likely to develop an allergic reaction to nickel are those who work with metals or who wear jewelry containing nickel on a regular basis. Nickel is a very commonly used alloy in jewelry-making and is often blended with other metals to produce various types of fashion and costume jewelry. People who frequently wear jewelry, including body piercings, can develop an allergic reaction to nickel over time.

The symptoms of an allergic reaction to nickel may not appear immediately after contact with nickel. Instead, these symptoms may arise anywhere between 12 and 48 hours after exposure. These symptoms may be mild and include a red rash or irritation. Some people find, however, that the itching becomes severe and that blisters may develop. These blisters may also ooze fluid. The skin may become vulnerable to infection at this point. If an individual has not yet been diagnosed with an allergic reaction to nickel, he or she should see a physician to verify the cause of the allergy and to receive treatment, which may include taking prescription or over-the-counter oral antihistamines and applying topical creams.

Preventing an allergic reaction to metal is typically a matter of identifying the metals to which a person is allergic and avoiding contact with these metals. It is particularly important for those with an allergic reaction to nickel to be very cautious about wearing jewelry. These individuals should purchase their jewelry from reputable sources that can provide information about the composition of the metals used to make the jewelry. Some jewelry manufacturers specialize in selling jewelry that does not contain nickel or other metals that are common allergens.

Share
WiseGeek is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.
Link to Sources
Lainie Petersen
By Lainie Petersen
Lainie Petersen, a talented writer, copywriter, and content creator, brings her diverse skill set to her role as an editor. With a unique educational background, she crafts engaging content and hosts podcasts and radio shows, showcasing her versatility as a media and communication professional. Her ability to understand and connect with audiences makes her a valuable asset to any media organization.

Editors' Picks

Discussion Comments
Lainie Petersen
Lainie Petersen
Lainie Petersen, a talented writer, copywriter, and content creator, brings her diverse skill set to her role as an...
Learn more
Share
https://www.wisegeek.net/what-are-the-signs-of-an-allergic-reaction-to-nickel.htm
Copy this link
WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.