Heavy Metals

Nickel

As part of comprehensive health screening, a nickel blood test helps you understand your environmental exposure to this common metal. Identifying elevated nickel levels can support better management of allergies and overall well-being.

Doctor's Assessment Included

Every result includes a professional assessment from a BIG-registered doctor. For treatment decisions, discuss your results with your GP.

Reference Ranges

No established reference range

There is no health-based reference value for nickel in urine. The German HBM Commission examined exactly this question and concluded that HBM values for nickel in urine cannot be derived: nickel is carcinogenic and sensitising, and no health-safe threshold is definable for such substances. A background-exposure reference value does exist (3 µg/l in German adults), but the Commission states explicitly that it may not be used to answer a health question: being above it means more exposed than most people, not ill. The other published nickel limits apply to occupational exposure and do not apply to the general population. Discuss your result with your doctor.

Reference ranges may vary between laboratories. When you order a test, a BIG-registered doctor assesses your personal results in context. For treatment decisions, discuss your results with your GP.

What It Measures

This test measures the concentration of nickel in your blood. Nickel exposure can occur through wearing nickel-containing jewelry, consuming certain foods like cocoa, nuts, and legumes, and working in industries such as electroplating, welding, and battery production.

Why It Matters

Nickel is one of the most common causes of contact allergies. Beyond allergic reactions, chronic occupational exposure to nickel may be associated with respiratory issues and has been studied for its potential health effects. Monitoring levels can help identify the source of exposure.

When to Test

Testing may be recommended if you experience persistent skin reactions, have known nickel allergy, work in nickel-related industries, or have unexplained respiratory symptoms. Consult a healthcare professional for interpretation of results.

Symptoms

Low Levels

Low levels of nickel are generally not a cause for concern and may indicate minimal exposure.

High Levels

Allergic contact dermatitis, skin rashes, respiratory issues, nasal irritation, shortness of breath.

Lifestyle Tips

Choose nickel-free jewelry and accessories. If you have a nickel allergy, be mindful of foods naturally high in nickel such as cocoa, cashews, and soybeans. Use protective equipment in occupational settings involving nickel exposure.

Frequently Asked Questions

How common is nickel allergy?

Nickel allergy is one of the most common metal allergies, affecting an estimated 10 to 20 percent of the population. It is more prevalent in women, likely due to greater exposure through jewelry.

Can food contain significant amounts of nickel?

Yes, certain foods are naturally higher in nickel, including cocoa, nuts, legumes, whole grains, and canned foods. For individuals with nickel sensitivity, managing dietary intake may help reduce symptoms.

Is nickel exposure from jewelry harmful?

For most people, nickel in jewelry causes no problems. However, for those with nickel allergy, prolonged skin contact can trigger contact dermatitis. Choosing hypoallergenic or nickel-free jewelry can help prevent reactions.

Nickel

€91,-