Nickel Urine Test, from our experts to you.
Dr Sam Rodgers MBBS, MRCGPChief Medical Officer
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Where is nickel found?
Nickel can be found in alloys, particularly nickel/copper and nickel/chromium, in the manufacture of stainless steel, coins, magnets, chemical and food process equipment, polishing or other processes on stainless steel and nickel alloy articles, welding of nickel and alloys and when using welding rods containing nickel, the electroplating industry, pigments for paint, pottery, glass and plastics and catalysts in the chemical industry. Nickel is also often found in jewellery.
How do you get nickel exposure?
You can come into contact with nickel in two ways; through breathing in dust and fumes containing nickel or through contact with the skin. Exposure to nickel can cause irritation of the skin and eyes, allergic reactions in the skin and respiratory tract, asthma, inflammation of the lungs, and cancer of the lungs and nose.
Is nickel harmful?
The most common harmful health effect of nickel in humans is an allergic reaction. Approximately 10-20% of the population is sensitive to nickel.