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Preparing for your appointment
By Mayo Clinic staffYou're likely to see your family doctor first if you are experiencing an itchy rash that may be related to nickel allergy. Because time with your doctor may be limited, preparing beforehand can help you make the best use of your time.
What you can do
- Write down a description of your symptoms and whether they occur in a pattern.
- Make a list of any medications you take, including vitamins and dietary supplements.
- Prepare a list of questions.
Questions that you might want to ask your doctor include:
- What is the most likely cause of my rash?
- What else might cause it?
- Is there a test that can confirm a nickel allergy? Do I need to prepare for this test?
- What are the treatments available for nickel allergy, and which do you recommend?
- What side effects can I expect from these treatments?
- Do I need to see a specialist?
- Can I use over-the-counter medications to treat the condition?
- What home remedies do you recommend, and what home remedies should I avoid?
What to expect from your doctor
Your doctor is likely to ask you a number of questions:
- When did you first begin experiencing symptoms?
- Have your symptoms changed over time?
- What at-home treatments have you used?
- What effect did those treatments have?
- What, if anything, appears to worsen your symptoms?
- Schram SE, et al. Nickel hypersensitivity: A clinical review and call to action. International Journal of Dermatology. 2010;49:115.
- Beltrani VS. Contact dermatitis: A practice parameter. Annals of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. 2006;97:s1.
- Douglas JD. Allergic contact dermatitis: A focus on nickel. Dermatology Nursing. 2009;21:354.
- Tips to remember: Allergic skin conditions. American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. http://www.aaaai.org/patients/publicedmat/tips/allergicskinconditions.stm. Accessed June 13, 2010.
- Lu LK, et al. Prevention of nickel allergy: The case for regulation? Dermatology Clinic. 2009;27:155.
- Body art. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/bbp/bodyart/stateRegs.html. Accessed June 13, 2010.
- Tattoos and body piercings. American Academy of Dermatology. http://www.aad.org/media/background/factsheets/fact_tattoos.html. Accessed June 13, 2010.
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