Metal Allergy Treatment in Pinellas Park, FL
Metal allergies refer to contact allergic dermatitis upon exposure to metal. This is frequently diagnosed after someone has an allergic reaction to a piece of jewelry, typically containing nickel. Nickel is often used in the manufacturing of metal alloys. Almost all metal jewelry is believed to contain some amount of nickel. 18 carat gold (75% gold), 24 carat (99.9% gold), stainless steel, and sterling silver are possible exceptions as they are often alloyed with other metals (often copper).
Metal items may be tested for the presence of nickel. A testing kit may be provided by your pharmacist or dermatologist. The kit typically contains a small bottle of fluid. The fluid may be poured onto jewelry and dabbed for a few seconds. The fluid should change colors if the metal contains nickel.
It has been debated that women are at greater risk for metal allergies, but this may only be because they are often more likely to wear jewelry.
Other Sources of Exposure
While jewelry is considered the leading cause of metal allergies, there are other things you deal with each day that might be causing your reaction. Some of these include:
- Cell phones
- Coins
- Metal clasps and fasteners (belt buckles, zippers, watchbands, etc.)
- Glasses
- Metal keys and tools
Symptoms of Metal Allergies
Symptoms of a metal allergy typically appear within two days of exposure. Your allergic reaction may differ depending on the trigger, but people with metal allergies typically experience the following:
- Rashes or welts on the skin
- Itching or redness of the affected areas
- Dry or flaky patches of skin
- Blisters and fluid buildup (in severe cases)
Treating Metal Allergies
Traditional treatment of metal allergies are often treated with corticosteroid creams, NSAIDs, and antihistamines to address the immediate skin reactions. Your doctor may perform a patch test to identify which metals trigger an allergic reaction.
Patients who are seeking natural treatment are encouraged to discover the underlying cause that triggers the immune response to metal. It is often recommended to begin an elimination diet to remove common allergens from the diet that may also be triggering a response.
Exposure to potential allergens in metal may be avoided by wearing hypoallergenic jewelry, testing metal for known allergens, and limiting exposure to potential irritants.
Request more information about metal allergies today. Call (813) 536-3212 or contact Dr. Christopher Van Benschoten online.
Evolution
Address
4691 Van Dyke RoadLutz, FL 33558
(813) 536-3212
www.evolution4health.com
Hours
Mon:
10:00 am - 4:00 pm
Tue:
10:00 am - 4:00 pm
Wed:
10:00 am - 5:00 pm
Thu:
10:00 am - 6:00 pm
Fri:
10:00 am - 3:00 pm
Sat:
Closed
Sun:
Closed