Have you got a nickel allergy?
Symptoms appear where jewelry and piercings come into contact with skin.
Symptoms of a nickel allergy include itching, redness, swelling, and blisters, which can break and leave scales or crusts. Normally symptoms appear around 6 hours to one day after contact exposure. In some cases nickel allergies are more prominent after exercise, since sweating creates a medium for increased exposure and absorption. Treatment for nickel allergy usually involves removing the offending item and there are skin creams that contain corticosteroids that are designed to reduce swelling. People who know they are sensitive to nickel allergies may want to switch to titanium for piercings and body jewelry. In cases where nickel allergy symptoms have progressed to blisters, a dermatologist should be consulted for treatment in order to prevent skin infections and scarring.
Notes and Special Information
Special note: Nickel allergy symptoms can be indicators of multiple metal sensitivity.