Children's allergy to nickel

Nickel allergy is a strange reaction to contact, ingestion or inhalation of nickel. Nickel allergy is classified within the allergies to metals and is the most common in this type of allergies. Cases of nickel allergy are becoming more frequent, even among children, although it should be noted that

Nickel allergy is a strange reaction to contact, ingestion or inhalation of nickel. Nickel allergy is classified within the allergies to metals and is the most common in this type of allergies.

Cases of nickel allergy are becoming more frequent, even among children, although it should be noted that it is a more frequent allergy in women than in men.

Symptoms in children of nickel allergy

Nickel allergy causes inflammation of the lymphatic cells and causes rashes, rashes, pimples or blisters in the area where the metal has been touched (rings, earrings , bracelets, watches, coins, belt buckles, etc ...), something that is very annoying in children, since they do not tolerate the hotness produced very well. Although at times it seems to have disappeared, it is a chronic allergy, but with phases of greater or lesser tolerance.

The allergic reaction does not appear immediately, exposure to nickel is required for a variable time, depending on the degree of allergy, and the rash takes 24 to 48 hours after exposure.

But nickel is not only present in metallic products, it is also found in food, that our son, if he is allergic, should avoid, like chocolate, tea, wholemeal bread, mussels, prawns, spinach, green and white beans , leeks, lentils, lettuce, peas, and even the healthy soy.

Prevention and Treatment of children allergic to nickel

There are many cases that occur every day, in the last ten years, the number of people, especially children, allergic to nickel has grown from 17% to 25%.

Once the inflammation is produced, it will be treated with corticosteroids applied in the area. You can also use a cream rich in aloe vera. Before administering the cream to relieve the itching caused by nickel allergy, it is advisable to wash the area very well with a hypoallergenic or antibacterial soap. If the symptoms worsen, the doctor will prescribe an antihistamine.

The best option to prevent nickel allergy, however, is not having contact with metals, since nickel is present in most of the alloys present in electronic devices, jewelery, coins, keys, clasps or clasps. underwear. Therefore, we must be careful when choosing clothes or toys for children, and if a reaction appears go to the allergist to perform the allergy tests.

Finally and if you have decided to put orthodontics to your child and is allergic to nickel, it should be something to discuss with the dentist because it is a very present material in this type of devices, although lately alternative materials are being incorporated with ceramics, stainless steel or titanium.

Diego Fernández. Editor of Guiainfantil.com