Common Side Effects Associated with Copper Bracelets
You may have seen advertisements of copper bracelets used for controlling the symptoms of arthritis. People often think that even if these bracelets won’t benefit the wearer, they are not going to harm them in any way either. But the reality is that there are few things you need to know before you start wearing these.
It has been found that copper bracelets are effective in reducing the inflammation and pain caused due to arthritis. But the increased copper levels in the human body may have other damaging effects on the health. If you are thinking of getting a copper bracelet, there are few things you need to know before purchasing one.
• Copper toxicity- When a large quantity of copper is ingested it may then lead to toxicity. Wearing a copper bracelet alone is unlikely to cause any toxicity. But the risk is increased when bracelets are combined with copper supplements and exposure to pesticides and fungicides. The common symptoms of copper toxicity include vomiting, nausea, metallic taste, digestive discomfort, yellow eyes and skin, anorexia, depression and muscle weakness.
• Skin discoloration- Copper bracelets may leave behind green or blue stains on the skin when worn for a long period. This discoloration means that copper is becoming soluble in the sweat and is getting absorbed through the skin into the bloodstream. The discoloration is the proof that the process is working.
- Skin irritation- Another common problem which a lot of people experience with copper bracelets is mild to moderate skin irritation. This happens because copper salts are natural irritants to human skin and cause redness, itchiness and discomfort. In some not so common cases, people may experience allergy or sensitivity to either copper or some other metals found in the bracelet. If symptoms are bothering you too much it is better to take off the bracelet.
• Not pure copper bracelet- When purchasing a bracelet, ensure that you are choosing a 100% pure copper bracelet and not the one with impurities. Some bracelets may contain toxic metals such as lead. The common symptoms of lead toxicity may include low appetite, headaches, digestive problems, irritability, insomnia, lethargy, anemia and hypertension.
• Mineral imbalances- An increased level of copper in the body may lead to an imbalance with other minerals. The most important mineral with a close relation to copper is zinc which is an important nutrient required for the nervous system, immune function and healthy skin. An increased level of copper in the body may decrease the level of zinc in the body disrupting all these crucial functions.
