What is a metal allergy?
A metal allergy is an allergy to metal, usually referenced in regards to jewelry, that some people experience. Although metal allergies can be to different types of metal, in most people this allergy is to a metal called nickel. Metal allergy is more common in women, with an estimated 12 percent of women being allergic to nickel, compared with only 6 percent of men. An allergic reaction to nickel can be a highly irritating and even painful experience. Typically the skin breaks out in a rash, known as eczema, where it has come into contact with nickel. The affected skin turns red, becomes itchy, and usually breaks out into painful fluid-filled blisters. This type of eczema is known as pompholyx. In the case of pierced ears, symptoms of nickel allergy usually include the earlobe swelling around the piercing, turning red, and itching. The hole usually also weeps a clear, yellowish fluid, a sign of infection. Although piercings can sometimes become infected due to other causes, persistent
