Causes and risk factors
Nickel allergy is a contact dermatitis which is caused due to prolong exposure to nickel in people who are sensitive to it. These people are said to be allergic to nickel. As like all other allergies it is an autoimmune reaction of the body. The allergy can be of two types Antibody mediated or non antibody mediated allergy. Antibody medicated allergy effects are seen is seen within an hour or so after contact with nickel or its products. The reaction is of sudden onset. In non antibody mediated allergy adverse effects are seen after prolong exposure to nickel.
Clinical presentation:
Usually the complaints are seen 12-48 hours after contact with the metal. The patient presents with complaints of redness of the affected area. Itching and small eruptions are the characteristic features seen. The eruptions are small skin lesion filled with fluid. Severe itching can lead to oozing of the blood. On the contrary itching itself can aggravate the complaint and give way for secondary infections. White flakes on scalp (dandruff) are seen.
Investigations:
Usually the patient himself overtime can identify the allergy to nickel .Diagnosis can be done on the basis of the symptoms narrated by the patients and the physical examination carried out by the doctor. The detail history taken from the patient will help the doctor to evaluate the cause. Routine blood test and allergy test can be recommended by the consultant.
Treatment:
As per doctors advised nickel and nickel products identified as a cause of allergy are avoided. For relieving the discomfort anti allergic medications are advised. Anti histamines and steroids have found to be effective. Corticosteroid creams can also be advised. Care must be taken while choosing jewellery. Use a leathery or cloth bands for watches, use of jeweler which is nickel free.
Other modes of treatment:
Certain other modes of treatment can also be helpful in coping up the symptom. Taking into consideration the symptoms in holistic way, homoeopathy can offer a good aid for the relief of the symptoms. The Ayurvedic system of medicine which uses herbs and synthetic derivates can also be beneficial in combating the complaints.
