We all feel a little allergic to technology on occasion, don't we? Well, recent reports indicate that allergies to iPads are the real deal. But it may not be for reasons you think.
For people with nickel allergies, iPads can cause some problems. A recently released paper in Pediatrics, the journal of the American Academy of Pediatrics, has indicated that due to nickel content in iPads, there is a legit risk of reactions from contact for those with allergies. An article on the CBC discusses in more detail the case of an 11-year-old boy whose dermatitis wasn't responding to typical treatment, and it was discovered that his rashes were related to contact with a first-generation iPad.
Nickel allergies are fairly common, and the metal is found in so many products, including (noted by naaf.no): cheap jewellery, kitchen utensils, zippers, knitting needles, scissors, some eyeglasses, coins. It's also in some white gold, platinum, silver, gold and plated jewellery. It's also in foods like dark chocolate, lentils, walnuts, and sunflower seeds! Not everyone with contact reactions will react to the nickel in food, but it's definitely worth knowing about, and for more information review the list on Steady Health.
For those with a sensitivity to the metal, rashes like eczema can occur after contact. But how reasonable is it to avoid when even our cars keys and clothing fasteners contain nickel? Here are five ways to reduce the chance of reaction if you have a nickel allergy.
1. Avoid buying cheap jewellery.
Nickel is used as "filler" in a lot of sterling (.925) jewellery, so seek out platinum or titanium instead.
2. Wash your hands after exposure.
Keeping hands clean immediately after exposure can help avoid irritation.
3. Don't wear zippers against skin.
Skin can be sensitive through thin fabric, so if you're finding reactions near zippers, or even behind your jeans pocket, try clothing without zippers that would touch skin, and keep keys farther from bare skin rather than in pockets.
4. Let medical professionals know about your allergy.
Some fillings contain nickel, so be sure to talk to your dentist, and many medical implements also contain nickel, so speak to doctors and nurses as well.
5. Keep skin dry if contact is going to happen.
Wet skin is more porous and, therefore, more prone to reaction, so keeping it dry (but washing after contact) may help reduce reactions.
If reactions are happening because of technology use, wearing gloves or using device cases may also help.
For more information on whacky allergies, read about how you can actually be allergic to winter, and all about these other strange but very real allergies.
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