GENERAL INFORMATION
Nickel is a very abundant natural element and is often used in electroplating, stainless steel and alloy products. It generally gets into water from mining and refining operations.
HEALTH EFFECTS
Exposure of the general population from sources , such as foods and drinking water, are almost always too low to be of concern. The most common harmful health effect of nickel in humans is an allergic reaction such as a skin rash. Less frequently, some people sensitive to nickel have asthma attacks following exposure to nickel. People working in nickel refineries or processing plants who drank water containing high amounts of nickel had stomach ache and suffered adverse effects to their blood and kidneys.
ACTION IS OPTIONAL
Nickel levels were detected in your water sample. There is no health-based standard for nickel. If you have concerns about the levels detected, please consult your physician.
WEBSITE RESOURCES
- ATSDR - Toxic Substances Portal - Nickel
FACT SHEETS
- ATSDR ToxFAQs Fact Sheet - Nickel