The side effects of gold vary significantly depending on its form, how it's used, and individual sensitivity. While pure gold is generally considered inert, alloys, medicinal forms, and even topical contact can lead to various reactions.
Gold in Medical Treatments (Gold Injections/Salts)
Historically, gold compounds, particularly gold salts, were used as a treatment (chrysotherapy) for certain inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. While less common now due to newer medications, they can have notable side effects.
Immediate Reactions to Gold Injections:
Immediately following an injection of gold medicine, patients may experience a range of acute side effects, including:
- Dizziness or feeling faint
- Flushing or redness of the face
- Nausea or vomiting
- Increased sweating
- Unusual weakness
These reactions are typically temporary but should be monitored.
Systemic Side Effects of Gold Therapy:
Longer-term or more serious side effects associated with gold therapy can affect various body systems. These may include:
- Skin: Rashes, itching (pruritus), dermatitis, or more severe skin conditions.
- Kidneys: Protein in the urine (proteinuria) or, in rare cases, kidney damage.
- Blood: Bone marrow suppression leading to a decrease in white blood cells (leukopenia), red blood cells (anemia), or platelets (thrombocytopenia).
- Gastrointestinal: Mouth sores (stomatitis), taste disturbances, diarrhea, abdominal cramps.
- Liver: Elevated liver enzymes or, rarely, liver dysfunction.
- Eyes: Deposits in the cornea, though usually asymptomatic.
For more detailed information on medicinal gold, consult reputable medical sources like the Mayo Clinic or National Institutes of Health.
Allergic Reactions to Gold Jewelry and Contact
One of the most common side effects of gold is an allergic reaction when it comes into contact with the skin, especially with jewelry. While pure 24-karat gold is rarely the culprit, lower karat gold (e.g., 14K or 18K) is an alloy, meaning it's mixed with other metals to increase its hardness and durability. Common alloying metals include:
- Nickel: This is a frequent allergen and often the true cause of "gold allergy."
- Copper
- Silver
- Zinc
- Palladium
Symptoms of Gold Allergy (Contact Dermatitis):
When an allergic reaction occurs, symptoms typically appear on the skin where the gold jewelry has been in contact. These may include:
- Redness
- Itching
- Swelling
- Rash or hives
- Blisters or dry, flaky skin
- Discoloration of the skin
Practical Insights for Jewelry Allergies:
- Choose higher karat gold: 24K gold is purest, but 18K or 22K are good compromises for those with sensitivities to common alloys.
- Opt for hypoallergenic metals: Platinum, titanium, or surgical stainless steel are excellent alternatives.
- Rhodium plating: Some white gold is plated with rhodium (a platinum group metal), which can provide a barrier between the skin and the allergenic alloys. However, this plating can wear off over time.
- Apply a clear coat: For existing jewelry, a layer of clear nail polish or a specialized jewelry barrier can help prevent direct skin contact.
Learn more about contact dermatitis from reputable dermatology resources like the American Academy of Dermatology Association.
Edible Gold (Food Decoration)
Edible gold leaf, flakes, or dust are used to decorate food and beverages. This form of gold is typically pure (23-24 karats) and is considered biologically inert, meaning it passes through the digestive system without being absorbed or causing any metabolic effects.
Side Effects of Edible Gold:
Generally, edible gold is considered safe for consumption and does not cause side effects in most people.
- Allergic reactions: Extremely rare, but possible in individuals with a specific allergy to gold itself (not just common alloys).
- Choking hazard: If consumed in large, unmanaged pieces, though this is highly unlikely given its thin, delicate nature.
Colloidal Gold (Dietary Supplements)
Colloidal gold consists of gold nanoparticles suspended in a liquid. It's marketed as a dietary supplement for various purported health benefits, including cognitive enhancement and mood improvement. However, scientific evidence supporting these claims is largely lacking, and its safety for long-term consumption is not well-established.
Potential Concerns with Colloidal Gold:
- Lack of Efficacy: No definitive scientific proof of claimed health benefits.
- Accumulation: Long-term ingestion could potentially lead to the accumulation of gold particles in organs, with unknown health consequences.
- Interactions: Possible interactions with medications are not well-studied.
- Purity and Concentration: The quality and concentration of gold in colloidal products can vary widely, posing a risk if products are not regulated.
Summary of Gold Side Effects
| Form of Gold Exposure | Common Side Effects | Severity |
|---|---|---|
| Medical Injections | Dizziness, nausea, flushing, weakness, rashes, kidney/liver issues, blood disorders | Moderate to Severe |
| Jewelry/Contact | Redness, itching, rash, swelling, discoloration (contact dermatitis due to alloys) | Mild to Moderate |
| Edible Gold | Generally none; extremely rare allergic reactions | Very Low |
| Colloidal Gold | Unproven benefits; potential for accumulation with unknown long-term effects | Unknown/Low |
When to Seek Medical Attention
If you experience severe or persistent side effects after exposure to gold, especially with medical treatments or significant allergic reactions, it's important to consult a healthcare professional immediately. For mild contact dermatitis from jewelry, removing the item and applying an over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream may help, but if symptoms worsen or don't improve, medical advice is recommended.
