Allergy to nickel: symptoms. Nickel allergy tends to affect women more than men, but in any case it is increasingly widespread. We speak, to be precise, of Nickel Systemic Allergy Syndrome (SNAS). It causes allergic reactions to contact with nickel, both outside, for example due to objects that contain it, and inside, due to foods that are rich in this element.
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THEallergy to nickel it is widespread and tends to affect women more than men. We speak, to be precise, of Systemic Nickel Allergy Syndrome (SNAS). It causes allergic reactions to contact with this metal, both outside, for example due to objects that contain it, and inside, due to foods that are rich in this substance.
We already told you about foods with a higher nickel content. Now let's see what the most common symptoms of this allergy.
Nickel allergy appears to occur at different intensities. Some people only experience problems due to skin contact with objects and products that contain nickel, such as zippers, metal buttons or detergents. Other subjects, on the other hand, suffer from discomfort when they eat certain foods. The reactions and symptoms may vary from person to person and according to the intensity of the nickel allergy.
Nickel is both a naturally occurring metal in soil and food, and a pindustrial waste product, for example with regard to fertilizers, cigarettes and car exhaust. It is good remember that nickel allergy is a 'buildup allergy.
This means that, in the most sensitive people, a strong accumulation of nickel in the body can lead to the triggering of allergic reactions caused even by contact with a minimal amount of the substance. Other people present a instead higher tolerance level. Nickel allergy is diagnosed via patch test. Following the confirmation of his presence, it is good to follow the advice given by the allergist.
Among the symptoms most common of nickel allergy we find:
Index
Redness
A symptom affecting the skin that may appear not only red but also scaly. It is easy for real dermatitis with a burning sensation to appear in case of nickel allergy.
itch
Another symptom of contact with nickel is the appearance of itching which can be associated with hives or the appearance of small pustules in areas that have come into contact with metal objects.
Nausea
Nausea is a symptom that is difficult to ascribe to this type of allergy but is not uncommon. This can also be associated with vomiting.
Headache
The head can also accuse of contact with nickel, creating migraines and pains of various kinds but also dizziness or vertigo.
Insomnia
If you have a nickel allergy, sleep can also become disturbed. You may suffer from real insomnia or have difficulty falling asleep.
Weight changes
When you notice a weight gain or on the contrary a loss of a few kilos in an apparently unmotivated way, this situation could be attributable to a nickel allergy.
Heart and breathing
The heart and breathing can also experience and show symptoms of nickel intolerance. In particular, we may see tachycardia and respiratory problems appear
Inflammation of the oral cavity
At the base of canker sores and inflammation of the mouth and gums that apparently appeared for other reasons, there could be an allergy to nickel.
Intestinal problems
In case of hypersensitivity to nickel, other symptoms with which you may find yourself struggling are those concerning the intestine: abdominal swelling, gastritis, colitis or constipation.
Tiredness and malaise
Finally, generic symptoms such as tiredness, exhaustion and general malaise can also be caused by exposure to nickel in subjects predisposed to allergy.
Useful tips for nickel allergy sufferers
Once the presence of nickel allergy has been ascertained, it is good to:
- avoid or limit, only if necessary and always with medical advice, the foods to which it has been found to be most sensitive (for example chocolate, coffee, dried fruit or tomatoes).
- Also pay attention to canned foods and canned drinks, as well as choosing pyrex glass or nickel-free guaranteed stainless steel dishes for cooking.
People who suffer from contact nickel allergy they should also pay attention to:
- metal accessories
- jeans buttons
- hinges
- earrings
- jewelry in general
We also recommend choosing products nickel tested for personal care (creams, shampoos, soaps…) and to wear gloves when cleaning the house. If you have any doubts, consult your doctor, who will be able to suggest an allergist to contact.
You may also be interested in nickel allergy:
- Nickel allergy: useful tips to limit contact and allergic reactions
- Nickel: here's what to do in case of allergy and contact dermatitis
- Nickel: the 10 foods that contain the most
- How to cleanse yourself of heavy metals: 10 foods and natural remedies
Marta Albè
