Is it Time to Let the Easter Bunny Know About Your Nickel Allergy Secret?

HUNTERSVILLE, N.C. - March 28, 2013 - PRLog -- While the bad news in the Easter Basket is that chocolate, cocoa, and many nuts are high in nickel content, the good news is this should not impact most people who suffer from allergic contact dermatitis to nickel.  Nickel allergic reactions typically develop after exposure to metallic items containing nickel.  Symptoms generally include a red, itchy rash that may last for days even after the nickel exposure has ended.  For the vast majority of people with nickel allergy, skin dermatitis is the limit of their symptoms.

Recently, however, some dermatologists and allergists are suspecting that nickel in food may play a role particularly in hand dermatitis or eczema.  The owners of Athena Allergy, Inc.,  considered experts in the nickel allergy field, offer a few helpful tips.  First and foremost, if a person has reason to believe that consuming high nickel food is creating a health problem, that person should visit a trusted dermatologist or allergist who specializes in nickel allergy or allergic contact dermatitis.

A list of foods high in nickel can be found by accessing the Athena Allergy website at http://www.athenaallergy.com/Nickel-Allergy-Diet.html.  Some studies have shown that taking a Vitamin C supplement with meals, or eating a high iron diet may offset the effects of nickel.  

While there are a lot of enjoyable Easter treats, none is quite so satisfying as that chocolate bunny.  “Why give up chocolate if you don’t have to?” asked owner Michael Dow as he reiterates the importance of not overreacting to the news of having nickel allergy.  

Begin by addressing the skin rashes through nickel avoidance.  The only way to avoid nickel is to find out where it is hiding.  Nickel is alloyed with many metals because it is durable, lustrous, and inexpensive.  Nickel allergy patients are shocked to learn that white, and even sometimes yellow, gold contains nickel.  A test has been manufactured by Athena Allergy that will detect even minute concentrations of nickel.  This test, Nickel Alert™, is safe to use on any metal item, takes only about a minute.  One small bottle can provide up to 150 positive tests.  

If a treasured or requisite item is found to contain nickel, applying a protective barrier will allow avoidance of the nickel in that item.  Nickel Guard™, Athena Allergy’s protective lacquer, is designed to coat metal items with an invisible micro-bond barrier.  This formula has been developed specifically for persons with sensitive skin; it does not contain harsh ingredients that may cause secondary dermatitis.  These problem solvers are sold separately or together as Nickel Solution™:  http://www.athenaallergy.com/products/Nickel_Solution-18-...

The next step to avoiding nickel is to seek out quality products that have been tested and are guaranteed to be nickel free.  Athena Allergy offers many such products including nickel free belts, nickel free buckles, and nickel free jewelry.  One can even find nickel free buttons and jean rivets to replace those that are causing an allergic reaction.

Dermatologists and allergists often recommend titanium products to their patients who suffer nickel allergy.  Titanium is considered a “safe” metal for those suffering from most metal allergies.  Athena Allergy has a large selection of titanium belt buckles and titanium belts with genuine leather straps, many of which have been handcrafted in the USA.  For a selection of titanium products, along with other nickel free belts, see http://www.athenaallergy.com/catalog/Nickel_Free_Belts-1-...

If earrings are creating the itchy ear lobe syndrome, check out the many handcrafted earrings that are guaranteed not to cause a nickel allergy rash.  Athena Allergy believes a person should not have settle for boring jewelry designs just because they are allergic to nickel.  These uniquely beautiful styles are designed to draw attention.

This Easter, most nickel allergy sufferers can enjoy that chocolate bunny!  But it may be time to take some of the other steps recommended for nickel avoidance.  Athena Allergy is a leading source for nickel allergy information and products.  Visit their website today to learn more.