Nickel Level Test: High/Low Levels, Symptoms, Toxicity & Complete Guide

Overview

The Nickel Level Test is a medical test done using blood or urine samples to measure how much nickel is present in the body. Nickel is a naturally occurring metal found in stainless steel, jewelry, coins, batteries, electronics, tools, and various industrial products. Small amounts of nickel may enter the body through food, water, or air, and usually do not cause harm.

However, high levels of nickel can be toxic. They may lead to skin allergies, breathing problems, digestive issues, fatigue, or long-term health complications for people with continuous exposure. This is why the nickel test is especially important for industrial workers, people with nickel allergies, or those suspected of having nickel poisoning.

In this detailed guide, you will learn what nickel is, why this test is important, how the body gets exposed to nickel, symptoms of high levels, and how the test is performed.

What Is Nickel?

Nickel is a metallic element commonly used in many everyday objects. Most people come in contact with small amounts of nickel daily through:

• Jewelry
• Coins
• Keys
• Phones
• Metal utensils
• Stainless steel products
• Industrial equipment

Some foods such as nuts, chocolate, tea, legumes, and grains naturally contain small amounts of nickel.

In normal situations, the body handles tiny amounts of nickel without any harm. But high exposure—especially from industrial fumes, chemicals, or constant skin contact—can be dangerous.

Where Is Nickel Produced in the Body?

Nickel is not synthesized or produced by the human body. It enters the body from external sources such as:

• Contaminated air
• Food and water
• Dust or fumes in industrial environments
• Skin contact with nickel-containing items
• Jewelry worn for long periods
• Metal tools or accessories

A small amount of nickel may naturally be present in human tissues and is mostly bound to proteins. The body eliminates nickel through urine.

Main Functions & Importance of Nickel in the Body

Nickel is considered a trace element, meaning the body needs it only in very tiny amounts, and even its role is not fully understood.

Some possible functions of nickel include:

1. Helps in Iron Absorption

Nickel may play a supportive role in iron metabolism.

2. Supports Certain Enzymes

Some enzymes may function better in the presence of tiny amounts of nickel.

3. Influences Hormone Activity

It may help regulate certain hormonal processes in very small quantities.

4. Maintains Cell Membrane Stability

Nickel may help in keeping cells stable and functioning properly.

However, high levels are toxic, and the body has no need for large amounts of nickel.

Causes of Low Nickel Levels

Low levels of nickel are extremely rare because the body does not require large amounts.

Possible causes include:

• Very low dietary intake (rare because nickel is present in many foods)
• Excess intake of chelating agents (chemicals that remove metals)
• Conditions that reduce absorption of trace minerals

Symptoms of Low Nickel Levels

Humans do not show clear symptoms of low nickel levels; deficiency is not medically recognized.

Some animal studies suggest symptoms such as:

• Slow growth
• Hormonal imbalances
• Poor enzyme activity

But these effects are not confirmed in humans.

Causes of High Nickel Levels

High nickel levels are more common and can be harmful. Causes include:

1. Occupational Exposure

Workers in industries such as:

• Metal plating
• Battery manufacturing
• Welding
• Stainless steel production
• Mining

are at higher risk.

2. Inhalation of Dust or Fumes

Breathing in nickel-containing air is a major source of toxicity.

3. Skin Contact With Nickel

Prolonged use of:

• Watches
• Necklaces
• Earrings
• Bracelets
• Belt buckles
• Metal tools

can increase exposure, especially in people who are nickel-sensitive.

4. Contaminated Food or Water

High-nickel foods or polluted water sources may contribute to levels.

5. Accidental Ingestion

Swallowing nickel compounds can cause acute toxicity.

6. Kidney Failure

When the kidneys cannot remove nickel properly, levels rise.

Symptoms of High Nickel Levels

Symptoms depend on the amount and duration of exposure.

Skin Symptoms

• Rash
• Itching
• Redness
• Eczema
  (especially in people with nickel allergy)

Respiratory Symptoms

• Persistent cough
• Wheezing
• Difficulty breathing
• Asthma-like symptoms
  (from inhaling nickel dust)

Digestive Symptoms

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Stomach pain
• Diarrhea

General Symptoms

• Headache
• Fatigue
• Dizziness

Long-Term Exposure Risks

Prolonged nickel exposure may cause:

• Liver damage
• Kidney damage
• Lung fibrosis
• Higher risk of lung or nasal cancer (especially in industrial workers)

Reference Ranges

Typical (non-exposed) population values:

• Blood Nickel: Less than 2 µg/L
• Urine Nickel: Less than 5 µg/L

Higher values indicate:

• Excess exposure
• Toxicity
• Occupational inhalation
• Poor kidney filtration

Sample Types Used

Doctors may order:

1. Blood Sample

Serum or whole blood is tested to check circulating nickel levels.

2. Urine Sample

Often a 24-hour urine test is done to measure how much nickel is being excreted from the body—particularly useful in industrial workers.

Nickel Level Test – Why It Is Done

The test helps doctors:

• Identify nickel poisoning
• Monitor industrial workers
• Evaluate skin allergy causes
• Detect environmental or food contamination
• Check for kidney-related issues
• Guide treatment for heavy metal toxicity

Test Preparation

• No fasting needed
• Avoid nickel-containing jewelry for 24 hours
• Inform your doctor about supplements or medications
• Industrial workers may need testing after shifts
• Follow instructions precisely for 24-hour urine collection

When to Consult a Doctor

Seek medical help if you experience:

• Severe skin rashes
• Persistent cough or breathing difficulty
• Recurrent nausea or stomach pain
• Unusual fatigue
• Known exposure to chemicals or metallic dust
• Worsening allergy symptoms

High exposure requires immediate treatment to prevent organ damage.

Important Word Explanations

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