There have been reported cases of individuals experiencing an allergic reaction to money. The reactions include the manifestation of rashes on the hands while handling money along with other symptoms such as asthma and nasal allergies among those who deal with large amounts of paper money. Even though rare, it is still possible for an individual to experience various allergic symptoms after being exposed to money from a variety of causes.
Possible causes of an allergic reaction to money
Nickel
The usual allergic reaction to money is triggered by handling coins that are made out of nickel. Exposure results to contact dermatitis on the hands. It is important to note that nickel is the typical cause of contact dermatitis.
Various coins all over the world are comprised of nickel alloys that are predisposed to corrosion and capable of releasing substantial amounts of nickel once in contact with human sweat.
Even though most handle coins that are made of nickel are not handling them extensively to cause prolonged exposure to nickel, some individuals might have enough exposure to trigger contact dermatitis. Those at risk include cashiers, bankers, coin collectors or even those who are habitually carrying coins in their pockets that might release nickel and trigger the skin rash on the upper thighs.
The management for this type of money allergy involves avoidance of extensive contact with nickel-based coins and the application of topical steroids to manage the contact dermatitis.
Printing ink
When it comes to paper money, they are printed using various types of inks where most are made from plant matter. It is believed that these inks might be made out from plant gums such as carob, tragacanth, xanthan, guar, karaya, carrageenan and Arabic. These plant gums are capable of triggering allergic reactions that can be easily tested using allergy blood tests.
Being exposed or handling large amounts of paper bills can cause the ink dust to become airborne and inhaled into the nose or lungs. This results to allergic rhinitis, asthma and even hypersensitivity pneumonitis in some individuals.
The management of this rare form of allergic reaction to money involves avoiding exposure to substantial amounts of paper bills and treatment of the symptoms using proper medications. In some cases, the individual might even consider changing his/her job to one that does not involve handling large amounts of paper bills.
Irritant dermatitis due to paper money
Exposure to large amounts of paper money can trigger irritant dermatitis on the hands which is not essentially an allergic reaction. If an individual counts large amounts of paper money, it can lead to dryness and cracking of the skin on the thumb and index finger where the bills are touched.
The rash is triggered by repeated exposure to paper money which wicks away moisture from the skin. In some individuals, the rash remains unnoticed while some suffer from itchiness, irritation and an unsightly rash. The management for this common condition includes topical steroids, applying a moisturizer and using silicon finger guards to minimize contact.