Preparing for an appointment

You're likely to see your family doctor first if you're experiencing an itchy rash that may be related to nickel allergy. Preparing for your appointment can help you make the most of your time with your doctor.

What you can do

• Write down a description of your symptoms, when they first appeared 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's 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?
• Can I use over-the-counter medications to treat the condition?

What to expect from your doctor

Your doctor is likely to ask you a number of questions:

• When did your symptoms begin?
• 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?