In the case of a metal allergy , touching coins, jewelry, or even door knobs can cause an allergic reaction. Dr. Krisztina Moric, an allergist, otolaryngologist and doctor at the Buda Allergy Center, told us what symptoms to look for and how to find out exactly which metals to avoid.
METAL ALLERGY: HOW THE BODY REACTS
Metal allergy is similar to any other type of allergic reaction. When the skin comes in contact with the allergen, the immune system considers the metal molecules as enemies and launches an attack against them. As a result of the reaction of the overreactive immune system, redness, itching, swelling or rash appear at the site of contact.
WHAT METALS CAN CAUSE SYMPTOMS?
Allergies can develop to any metal, so it is entirely up to the individual to determine who is causing the symptoms. Nickel allergies are the most common, affecting nearly 30 percent of women, but cobalt and chromium also cause complaints in many.
Manufacturers often use nickel and cobalt to alloy with other metals. These metals can be found in lower quality jewelry such as jewelry. In this case, the jewelry should be replaced to eliminate the symptoms, it is worth trying the following materials, which are less likely to cause allergic symptoms: copper, yellow – at least 14 carat gold, white gold and coated jewelry is sometimes alloyed with nickel or cobalt metals – platinum, stainless steel or silver .
“Instead of experimenting, if you want to be sure, it’s worth doing an allergy test. With an epicutaneous test, we can determine exactly which metal is causing our symptoms and we just need to avoid it in the future. ”
WE CAN ALSO COME INTO CONTACT WITH METALS IN SURPRISING PLACES
However, avoidance is not so simple, as not only jewelry, but many other everyday objects can also contain metals .
HERE ARE SIX SURPRISING SOURCES:
Cosmetics – Eyeliner and eyeshadow can also contain metallic ingredients, so using them can also cause symptoms in case of allergies. If we are familiar with the allergen, we will monitor the ingredients before purchasing and, if possible, stick to proven, trouble-free products.
Mobile Phones – If you are allergic to nickel or cobalt, your phone is also a potential source of skin complaints.
Eyeglass Frames – Like jewelry, glass frames are alloyed with nickel or cobalt. In case of complaints, it is recommended to switch to another frame, such as plastic.
Clothing – In the case of metal allergies, buttons as well as rivets and zippers can be a problem. Where, for example, the bra buckle or the denim button comes into contact with the skin, redness, redness, and itching may occur within a short time.
Tattoos – If you are considering a tattoo and have previously had complaints of contact with metals, you may want to rule out the possibility of a metal allergy before the procedure. This is because the pigments in tattoo inks can contain cobalt and other heavy metals.
Medical and Dental Implants – The only way to treat allergic symptoms due to implanted implants is to remove the implant that caused the complaints. It is therefore strongly recommended that an allergy test be performed prior to interventions.
