My son hates metal

by Melissa J
(Austin, Texas, USA)

My 4 year old is fascinated with how everything smells. After my husband gets home from work he has to shower if he wants to be near our son. He tells my 9 year old to go shower or go brush her teeth... because of a smell.




Well for about a year he would not touch money. He told us it made his hands stink, so we would wash after playing or touching money. Well now he will not even take a quarter to get a gum ball, we have to put the quarter in the machine for him.

Up until now we were fine with all this but now he will touch NO metal. NONE! Door handles, ladders on playground or pool, screwdriver, dogs food bowl, snap on jeans and so many other things. We just want to make it ok and not so scary for him, to have dirty or metal smelling hands. We taught him to wash his hands for 20 seconds with really perfumed soap and sometimes that works but we shall see how much further this goes????

My husband just laughs and says he will buy him finger cotts to count money or gloves to open doors with... We just have good humor about his little fusses and try not to get frustrated.

We have so much to be thankful for, he is the best kid, lovable, sweet and smart.



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Jun 03, 2021
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		I relate
by: Anonymous

I posted a comment here in 2013 and still come back every once in a while to see what people have written. It is the one place on the internet where I don't feel like a total weirdo about this.

I am 23 now and still dealing with it. I got married and we just didn't have rings. My husband knows that coins do not come into our house. The worst is when I want to shop at aldi but you need a quarter to put in the cart. It feels like a phobia, to coins particularly because that is the worst for me, but I don't understand at all where it comes from.

I also believe that I have sensory processing problems of some kind, certain sounds in general make me feel like I am drowning or make me angry. It feels really good to know that you all exist and are having the same daily struggle that I am, that I am not alone in these feelings.

In media a lot of time "weird phobias" can be shown as really dumb, with the person who has them being taunted with the thing and laughed at. It is hard for me not to think of myself that way.
Dec 16, 2020
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starstarstarstarstar 		metal utensils
by: Anonymous

It started when I got braces, I hated the sound of my metal utensils clinging against my brackets. Not just the sound but the taste and feeling too. I got my braces off and still feel horrible using metal utensils, they make my teeth feel weird.I also hate the sound that metal utensils make when it scratches against a plate, as I try to grab my food.
Feb 24, 2020
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starstarstarstarstar 		My Perspective
by: Anonymous

My Dad always said metal effected the body. If i got new jewelry he would make me "test it"

First remove all metal from your body

Hold your hand out, flat, palm up. touch your thumb and peter pointer together, making a circle while still having your middle finger, ring finger, and pinky pointing straight.

Place the metal that your testing in your palm. Now have a second person try to pull your thumb and peter pointer apart with reasonable strength. have the person try not to touch your skin until they are going to pull your fingers apart

if the metal was "bad for me" my fingers would come apart easily. if the metal was not harming my body or if it was helping my body my fingers will have more strength and would not come apart easily, sometimes not at all!

This worked everytime.

I also want to add i have no issues with metal that i know of. If i drag my teeth across the metal fork im using i get a weird feeling and have to stop eating for a bit. I assumed bone on metal was the issue.
Aug 29, 2019
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starstarstarstarstar 		I too can relate
by: Anonymous

It really started for me after I had my 4th child, I noticed EXTREME SENSITIVITY to my teeth. Went to Dr. & explained that when I eat after contact with my pans skillets utensils I felt a weird taste in my mouth..she stated after tests that my calcium levels was low. Said tht could be the problem since I was breastfeeding.

14yrs later I STILL have the problem & ppl seem to find it weird. Its Sooo uncomfortable & too much that it can at times make u feel sick. (well in my case) many things I can't have near me like that yetti cup, NO stainless steel appliances!! And please don't cling together. I even get sick from going to the dentist. No other Dr's have tried to take interest in my problem and I hate that because I feel it's robbing part of my life since I come in contact with it EVERYDAY!!

Hope we can ALL get answers & cured..
Apr 21, 2019
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starstarstarstarstar 		can relate
by: Anonymous

hey, 16 y/o here

i have a similar problem: coins, keys, jewellery, patterned tableware, metal door handles, metal clothes fastenings, zippers, chains, kettles, cookware, etc all disgust me and i feel ill when i touch them.

i also have the same problem with things that come in to contact with these things often/have just come in to contact with these things. for instance, if someone has just handled keys i will not want them to touch me or anything i own, and i need to disinfect/wash that surface afterwards. also, paper money disgusts me in the same way as it is so often in contact with coins.

i think my problem is strongly linked to the smell of metal as i am fairly sensitive to smells, and usually if something metal does not smell (some stainless steel items or metal coated in paint) then i can bear it as long as i dont think too hard about what i am touching, and things that smell strongly are so much worse. for instance, usually i am okay with smooth cutlery, but one of my friends has 'raw' metal cutlery (a darker metal that smells very strongly) and i nearly threw up trying to eat with it and ended up not eating at all

i deal with this everyday, but i have tricks and stuff for daily life. for example, there are socks on all the door handles in our house, i carry around a tube of antibacterial gel and baby wipes with me wherever i go, i make sure someone is with me/already home so i never have to touch a key, i do most of my shopping online or sometimes ask friends to pay for me, i use plastic cutlery 90% of the time and carry some with me, i never wear jewellery, etc

mostly i am just worried for when i get older as i will need to work out some alternative/some solution for when i get my own place and need a key. im thinking perhaps a plastic key that i can wipe down whenever i use it? and also i know i would never be able to wear a wedding ring

ive had this problem a long time, but according to my parents i was not always like this, and it got worse as i got older. i dont think anyone around me really understands and people often get frustrated with me/angry with me if they think im making this up

im not sure if this is just a weird quirk or if i really do have a diagnoseable problem. i dont really want to go to a professional though cus im scared they'll try and train me out of it by making me hold money, keys, etc
Jan 28, 2019
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starstarstarstarstar 		Same ...cant stand smell of metallic objects
by: Noelm

Good to know I'm not the only one.

I've had this issue all my life, where I can't stand the smell of metal. Brass,copper, iron they have a smell after I touch it that is hard to wash off. The smell is so bad I feel sick. Sometimes I carry a paper towel to wrap on door knobs to avoid directly touching.

My theory is my body oils interact with the metal and creates a compound that I can smell. People don't believe me so I don't mention it

If it's harmful I have no idea.
Jul 08, 2018
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starstarstarstarstar 		metal cutlary
by: Anonymous

im 11 years old and ive had this since i was so young, i think i used metal forks when i was like 4-6 but i stopped at christmas when my cousin used the metal fork i was using and i will NEVER eat from metal cutlary , only at restaurants, but thats it, i have to tell my friends that it digusts me and they don't get it and my parents say im like a kid and dont understand but legit it makes me feel ill
Jun 18, 2018
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starstarstarstarstar 		Same here
by: Anonymous

I am 43 and the same way. I hate money. Coins especially but paper money is also odiferous and I can no longer touch it.I also have an aversion to keys and jewelry. Mine started at the age of 8, and it has gotten worse over the years. I probably wash my hands 100 times a day. I understand how your son feels.
May 05, 2018
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starstarstarstarstar 		I have the same problem
by: Anonymous

I have the same problem as the child I can smell metal taste it like on forks, knives, ect,

I just have to eat with plastic-ware and get paper money.
May 04, 2018
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starstarstarstarstar 		I’m just the same
by: Anonymous

I’m 12 and still kind of figuring out what kind of disorder I have, and this seems to be the closest. I hate touching anything that smells like metal, and even more, just anything that smells weird/bad. At this point, I’m pretty sure I have SPD and Germaphobia as I also don’t like touching things or going to places that seem dirty or full of germs.
May 22, 2017
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starstarstarstarstar 		Cutlery Alternative
by: David

Our daughter has a similar aversion but mostly with things she puts in her mouth- namely forks and spoons. Hates them and won't use them. For a couple of years we had to carry around plastic utensils everywhere we went. Recently we found some ceramic flatware called Certine. It was like magic! Completely changed our dinner dynamic. Hope this helps.
Feb 18, 2017
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starstarstarstarstar 		ME TOO!
by: Anonymous

My dislike of metal is due to immune problems - I developed post viral-CFS and it really affected my sense of smell.

I can't drink water from a metal thermos, avoid touching money, clothing labels drive me mad! I get little burning shock feelings from my bed head (iron) and my Macbook (aluminium?).

It's not the only thing, though. Plastics - ugh! New carpet - get me out of here!

This is a steep learning curb for me, because I always thought that these things were psychosomatic, and a good strong mind could overcome them. Universe - 1; Me - zero.

There are some allergy tests that can isolate the metal sensitivies. Do a search and see if you can find one.
Sep 15, 2016
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starstarstarstarstar 		It's the same for me.
by: Seryn

I'm 17 and live in Australia. I'm almost finished high school and I have a fear of touching coins as well as metal jewelry. I've been like this since I can remember and I think my parents just think it's a phase, but I just get disgusted by it.

If I touch coins, I have to instantly wash my hands, at school and I'm at the canteen and they give me coins back, I kind of shiver a little and take it but straight away give the coins to someone else to keep and head to the bathroom to wash my hands. At home, my mum has a long of necklaces and earrings, rings laying around.

The other day there was a pile of earrings on the bathroom bench, I needed to move it to do my makeup but I couldn't stand the thought of touching it with my hands so I hand to use the end of my sisters hairbrush to move it. I didn't want to touch the bench where it was so I disinfected the spot before doing my makeup.

But the thing that gets me the most is seeing another person stick their metal necklace in their mouth. I feel so sick just at the sight, I honestly gag. I don't know what's wrong with me, I don't want to be this afraid of it. I want to be able to help my friends put their necklaces on but I just can't. I have piercings, my nose and tongue but those don't freak me out. I think it's the germs, money especially.
Jun 28, 2016
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starstarstarstarstar 		posting again
by: kuwaizair

wait so. all of this, it is just smelling and tasting hundreds of people, when it comes to pocket change.

I don't know why I am sad that "metal has no smell or taste" I guess it makes me sound uneducated to say it, or "i'm not so weird and special that my self and countless others have something like me/lol I'm so weird, sometimes i can taste metal with my hands and sometimes touching feels like stabbing in the ears with a horrible sound"

"you tell'n me I'm filithy?" "i'm tasting smelly people?" metal is reacting with metal in my body making a "scent"? the iron in blood smell dosen't exist?

I was told once it is because I have metal fillings. I still experance it without a herrington rod in my spine. or who knows, maybe it got stronger or started without it.
Jun 28, 2016
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starstarstarstarstar 		my self as well,
by: Anonymous

once i tasted a doorknob with my hands.

so i should not say I don't like the smell of metal, or "sometimes I can taste coins with my fingers"

it is the metals in the body reacting.

sometimes touching some metals, feels in my mouth, like when you have fillings and chew foil. with my hands.

and at times it "hurts", if nails on a chalk board gives a physical sensation. not quite heebie geebies, not really "stabbing feeling'. like that unnerving feeling of "nails on a chalk board" with even light clanging (putting pot lids into the drawer other plot lids go, or metal cuttley.

does this have a name or is it not a condition
May 28, 2016
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starstarstarstarstar 		IT TINGLES HMMM
by: human

if I touch old rubbed steel it tingles it seems to hold a static charge and metal cutlery feels like a battery in my mouth if it is cleaned to vigorously it holds a static charge and the tap in my shower gives me a slight shock when I touch it even with the power off it comes from the ground putting a Multimeter on the tap shows that it has a charge nobody else can feel the electricity in the tap
Apr 22, 2016
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starstarstarstarstar 		Continuation: "I have it too!!!!!! :/ :/ :/ "
by: Anonymous

Apr 22, 2016, Continuation:

1) I knew for sure that something is wrong with me, when I almost throw up on a chemistry lesson in high school, when teacher put a burner on a desk for an experiment and the burner's material made me feel sick and heavily disgusted:/ :/ It was similar to those:
https://www.google.pl/search?q=torcher&biw=1280&bih=676&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwijm--V86LMAhXME5oKHamxBUYQ_AUIBigB#tbm=isch&q=burner+chemistry+experiments&imgrc=zB_ZrbRPrZ4NYM%3A

2)I have got "limbal rings". Maybe it is common for us? Just telling, because "Kayser–Fleischer rings" are present when someone has copper metabolism disorder. Maybe limbal rings also are also marks of health.
Apr 22, 2016
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starstarstarstarstar 		Have it too!!!!!!:/
by: Anonymous

Hello everyone. I am so glad I found your stories. I was always thinking that I am the only one person with "THIS". I will tell you about my case.

To start with, sorry if my English will be bad. I am from western Europe.

I have the same indisposition since I remember. Much milder though as some people beneath- buttons, zippers does not bother me at all. What I can not cope with because of this indisposition is... my job, steel not covered by paint in larger quantities or just: cars, planes etc.

I am a 28 y.o mechanical engineer. (Btw., it seems to me that the word "metal" on this page should be replaced with "steel" (=carbon+ iron+ alloy additions, check Wikipedia for more info) to be technically correct). In mechanical engineering almost everything is made from different types of steels. And this is why my life turned into a horror.

When I was a student, I was thinking that I have DISGUST towards steel and brass objects, cars, planes etc. because I am like a french lap-dog and it will pass if I will work on it. I could learn about different appliences from written text, but when it was coming to practical usage at classes, when I had to take stuff made from this awful alloys to my hands or look at it, it virtually felt as if someone gently but continousely mingled my intestines+ scrub with sandpaper back-upper part of my brain. I was petulant and my face was showing that something is wrong, could not change it. Once I even almost run away from a room, when I had to look at a changing steel rod into a pipe, changing shape of steel plates to mug similar+ many more. Just have so ENOUGH. I do not understand it. No one seemed to react this way. When I finally got out into an open space, air seemed extremely fresh and clean. It was only usual outside.

When I was doing an internship (computer connected stuff mostly with m.e.), on one day in front of the company building were lying many huge piles of steel (carbon steel I guess) pipes, tees etc. and I had to pass them to get to the entrance. There were so many of them… They were partly rusted, not covered by paint at all. I did not threw up, but it felt so bad, I felt sick and the feeling stayed for the long period. It is still, when I think about it. It even once came back to me at night in a dream- such large amounts of pipes. It felt so SICK.
I have motion sickness. Passing this pipes was like "we do not have to stop the car for vomiting yet, but I feel bad and it will get worse or do not stop". In such car cases sometimes people tell me that my face turns green and yellow.

From talking with others I know for sure, that I react differently for smell of petrol and steel, especially heated steel (like fiat cars in 90’s in hot summer days)- HATE IT. Some people have told me, that for them this smell is like perfumes. I was thinking that if I would be reading more about cars, getting to know how they work, want more, my attitude and everything will change. It totally did not. It is connected to this pieces of materials and body reaction, not my mental attitude.

I had a one year break at my studies and worked in simple bookstore during that time with nothing to do with iron, carbon, brass, etc. My mother told me then, that I am totally different person- cheerful.
Now let’s come back to childhood

When I was a child, dad took me once to an airplane show and afterwards forced to stand very close to an airplane for only one photo. I was an obedient child, but dad did not believe then it is not up to willful that I did not want the photo and stand there. I had to try very hard not to go a distance away and had to focus hardly on my very big balloon in hand instead. It felt as if me and this plane were magnets of different poles and we are pushing ourselves away. It sounds strangely, I know:/

Leaving the subject of steel, friend of my cousin graduated as chemical engineer and she totally changed profession, because she could not stand vapours, smells etc.- was more sensitive. Sounds similar.

About what others have written:
1) "vaporize or electrolyze different metals into a rock matrix (…) This effect seems to be related to exposure to metal ions."- interesting.

2) smell of brass coins: I hate it too, but can stand, just feel very dirty.

3) Synesthesia: I have it.

4) "metallic smell is not the metal but in chemical compounds within our bodies reacting to the metal when we touch it". Maybe also. I could smell processed steel and welding gases from far distance away despite the closed doors of the rooms at university.
5) Now I will be disgusting: I can smell my menstrual blood despite the fact, I am dressed. It has nothing to do with lack of hygiene. When I was younger, I was frequently asking my sister questions weather she can smell it too, because I was ashamed of being among people for this days. She did not.

Thank you so much for your stories!!!!:)
Apr 14, 2016
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starstarstarstar 		Response to Thraxen
by: Jeanne

Hey. I'm so intrigued right now after reading what Thraxen had to say. I found this page while seeking an explanation for the sensitivity metal smell. First of all, I'm amazed I'm not alone. Second, I think I might have just found a piece to this puzzle! I already know Thraxen and I have more than a couple things in common related to this topic. Number one, of course is the sensitivity. Number two, I just turned 26 in February, so our age we have in common as well. Number three, I also have depression and anxiety along with Aspergers Syndrome (a more functional form on the Autism spectrum). This couldn't just be coincidental. Glad I found this. Thanks. Best wishes.
Mar 27, 2016
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starstarstarstarstar 		metal+ soap odor
by: BB

I don't have anything like a metal phobia but I do find odors from some metals very unpleasant. Usually, this is associated with cookware and dish soap, stainless steel is usually no problem but cheaper cake pans and a few other things will sometimes give off this odor and I will notice a bad flavor in food cooked in the pan, especially if it's used soon after cleaning. I rinse everything very thoroughly yet it lingers. I used to think it was a reaction to the chemicals in cheap name brand dish soaps, but I use fragrance & dye free products and sometimes notice it still. I'm also sensitive to most perfumes, colognes, etc. and would love for them to be banned from public places because they make me want to gag. I do not however, have this reaction to naturally scented oils or incense or the like. I'm always surprised that other people don't seem to notice. I also find it odd that there doesn't seem to be much information out there about this.
Mar 11, 2016
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starstarstarstarstar 		glad its just not me
by: Anonymous

I'm 39, cant stand the smell of stainless steel cant even walk by a sink or dish rack and ill smell knifes forks, to the point there not to be found in my house, I use plastic cutlery
but I don't have to smell them, glad to see I'm not a freak or somethings messed with my body
Feb 03, 2016
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starstarstarstarstar 		Metal for me
by: Anonymous

I'm 56 have some metal issues for one the fillings in my mouth caused me lots of discomfort I think that started my metal issue I think a lot of that dissipated when my cousins and I hung from a tree and swallowed dimes and pennies not saying to do this I've found it is a phobia I only use flat simple line silverware I put either oil or Dw 40 to keep that key to metal taste or smell off my keys I still don't use change much so I gather it in a container take it all at once to a machine at my bank fort hood it's free to use and my wedding ring hangs on a jewelry hanger by my bed hubby doesn't like to wear his eight their but everyone knows we are married we tell them we have been married 16 years this way lol if others don't understand we don't care it's their problem lol I don't wear any of the jewelry I have either but the metal in make up bothers me too so no thanks don't wear it I'm aghoraphobic so I think because I have this plus I'm a mechanic that metal bothers me less cause I found a way to over come it it's called WD40 it changes the smell for hope this helps good luck everyone by the way I'm seeing a counselor but for other reasons lol
Jan 06, 2016
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starstarstarstarstar 		I'm not alone!
by: Thraxan

I am 26 and hate to touch certain types of metal. I can deal with coated metal but Stainless Steel, I just cannot touch it. I have a ruler beside me and it is annoying I can barely touch it. I am gonna be wrapping it in clear tape but I thought I would see if anyone else has the same issue!!

To another commenter, I have anxiety, depression, bipolar and aspergers.
Nov 29, 2015
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starstarstarstarstar 		response to previous question
by: Anonymous

Just responding to your question. I don't have any of the disabilities you mention, but I do remember the day I became sensitive to metal. I was about eight when all of a sudden I could not touch the metal dust bin lid, that I had previously touched many times before. My sensitivity to metal has not left me to this day, some forty years on. Maybe for so others there may be a relation to other disabilities
Nov 28, 2015
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starstarstarstarstar 		Co-morbidity to hating metal?
by: Anonymous

Hello, I am so glad to see that I am not the only person on earth who is greatly disturbed about having metal touch my skin, especially jewelry. I am wondering if any of you also are affected by anxiety troubles, depression, fibromyalgia and/or arthritis. Just looking to see if there's a relation...
Nov 02, 2015
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starstarstarstar 		Glad I'm not alone
by: Anonymous

I am glad to have found this. I'm 28 years old and absolutely can't stand the smell of rusted metal. The smell produced by metal scraping on metal also sends me over the edge. It makes me sick to my stomach, dizzy and actually makes my teeth hurt.
I also have issues after handling money and other metals with the smells left over on my hands.
Oct 16, 2015
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starstarstarstarstar 		Trust your son's instincts
by: Anonymous

You are very lucky to have that kid. If you don't want him I'll adopt him. There is nothing wrong with him.

paper money is incredibly dirty. Seriously. If you knew what microbiologists know about paper money you would wear gloves to touch it. Metal money isn't much better because everyone has handled it.

There are very good reasons to NEVER touch any metal or even get near it. Metal is not a part of our natural environment and we did not evolve to touch it. It absorbs life force (along with a lot of other things). Your kid has great instincts. Trust him. If he tells you it would be smart to jump off a bridge, do it.
Sep 13, 2015
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starstarstarstarstar 		Metal aversion means you're genetically advanced
by: Anonymous

Those who are sensitive to the smell of metal (as it touches skin) are smelling the oxidation of the skin. No doubt some people are much more sensitive to this smell since it emulates a "blood" smell. The ability to smell blood from far away was an important trait for our ancestors to survive. The best hunters were finely tuned "metal smellers". So, look at it this way -those who have metal aversions may be just be more evolutionary advanced than others. Also, metal is a conductive material (electrical and thermal energy). Highly sensitive people may be picking up very subtle energies from the metal, which goes undetected by the majority of the population. Overall, I believe those who have these metal aversions may have had some kick-ass ancestors who passed down their highly sensitive genes.
Sep 02, 2015
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starstarstarstarstar 		jewelry
by: elievans6

Thanks to all of you for sharing your stories! I'm 39yrs old and have had an issue with wearing jewelry since, forever. My mom had my ears pierced when I was a few months old, but I became intolerant of the way it felt on my skin soon after.

It's kinda funny, but one reason I never wanted to marry was because of having to wear a ring. Haha, I did get married and 4 kids later got divorced. But I have 2 girls who do like jewelry, and I just cringe everytime they ask me to help them put jewelry on. I hate, and am disgusted by the way any jewelry feels to touch. I don't have any other metal or coin issues, just jewelry... it feels slimy and cold on my skin. Its the strangest thing! I'm glad I'm not alone in feeling like this. My friends and family think I'm so weird because of this!
Aug 21, 2015
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starstarstarstarstar 		To the engaged girl
by: Anonymous

I am your same age and have had the same problem my whole life! Amazingly, my long time boyfriend has the exact same problem which is great but also inconvenient hahaha. We are thinking about marriage and talked about tattoo rings. I saw some pretty delicate white ones online. Just a potential solution. Don't feel selfish it's who you are!
Aug 20, 2015
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starstarstarstarstar 		I can't wear my engagement ring
by: Anonymous

I'm 27 and have always hated Jewelry, loose change, eating from a teaspoon, knives & forks that aren't smooth, keys, and generally anything small and metallic.

My fiancé proposed to me and I was delighted and determined to wear my diamond ring, but it made me feel sick. We've been engaged 8 months and due to get married in 4 weeks and I've worn my ring on maybe three occasions for less than an hour. I don't know why I'm so disgusted by it but the thought of it going in my mouth genuinely terrifies me and I can't wear it because of this.
I hate the smell loose change and keys leave on my hands and I wash my hands after touching things like this.

I've never pierced my ears because the thought of touching an earring makes me want to hurl. People my age don't get this at all. And everyone asks me why I never wear my engagement ring but I physically can't do it and have to lie about being allergic to metal.

I've told my fiancé not to buy me a wedding ring because I won't ever wear it and it would be a waste of money and thankfully he understood, but now he is questioning whether to get one for himself because he thinks it will affect me too much! I feel so selfish.

I hate putting teaspoons in my mouth, and sometimes can't eat comfortably at another persons house if their cutlery has patterns on it. I don't understand why I'm like this and I don't want to get counseling or treatment because if I do, I will have to wear Jewelry or put a teaspoon in my mouth! It all sounds ridiculous out loud.
Aug 06, 2015
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starstarstarstarstar 		NOT ALONE!
by: Anonymous

Everyone thinks im crazy when i tell them i hate coins! When little i use to tape the knobs or backpack zippers, anything metal i might touch, is disgusting.

I cant buy things without the fear of touching the change, im getting better with metals but coins? Nope, never ewwww

I hate that whenever i tell people they try to test it, *ssholes
May 17, 2015
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starstarstarstarstar 		My son can't look at metal
by: Natalia

I'm glad I found this website! Thank you all for sharing your stories. My son, who is 8 year old, has the same issues with metal as many of you. For example, he can't stand to look at coins, keys, jewellery, buttons. He also has issues with jeans. He doesn't wear them, can't even look at them. At first, I didn't see it as a big problem. I was hoping he will outgrow it. But now I see how he struggles and I need to understand how to help him. Recently, I noticed that he started to spit on his shirt. He said that he has to do it when he looks at metal and some other images that he doesn't like. I'm going to find the OT to get some professional help.
May 09, 2015
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starstarstarstarstar 		metal worn on skin ewwww
by: beebee

I've disliked touching metal since little. I hated the way mom made me wear and clean earrings, some old skin sticking to it and greasy and metal! Yuck!

I basically hate the way metal feels against skin and the smell reminds me of blood. I can eat with a metal spoon,I can even bite it if it isn't old,rusty and has a pattern carved into it, that's a no-no. I can't wear/touch watches,rings etc., but touch keys, doorknobs and money cuz it is inevitable. I do wash my hands after it.

What I absolutely can't do with a full stomach is clean the sink,especially if there is food stuck in it and all warm. I would die if any ring or earring or bracelet would somehow land in my mouth and I can't step into an old bathtub on a place where there is rust on.

I don't see it as a problem because it is not crippling me. If it does sometimes I just breathe through mouth and get over it :)
May 09, 2015
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starstarstarstarstar 		I cringe at the sound of metal
by: Anonymous

I am very scared of metal screeching, when I take the metro, I don't sit because it just makes me think of myself scraping the metal.
it leaves me completely stiff necked and makes me have goose bumps too.
also, it makes me agitated and fall into a strange addiction of needing to scrape the metal, even if it makes me stand on end.
sometimes n class, when I see the metal lining of the blackboard, I need to scrape paper to get me out of my misery.
need help, fast...
May 06, 2015
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starstarstarstarstar 		Need key suggestions
by: Anonymous

I have the same problem you are All describing. I have never reached out for help but I'm feeling like I need some suggestions. I am not sure what to do to get over my key problem. I use a really long plastic keychain and use brand new keys that don't have much of a metal feel/smell But I just moved and my apartments management company won't give me a new key and I can't copy the original. It's so DISGUSTING I don't even know where to put in when I don't need it. I was thinking nail polish but I don't want to ruin the key especially because they are so strict. What do you guys think?
Mar 31, 2015
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starstarstarstarstar 		Same-ish.. cont.
by: Anonymous

I already wrote here (Same-iash...) but I still have more to say;
I hate jewelry, and braces. My mom sometimes gives me jewelry and I never ever ever where it, I don't know what I would do when I get married (can I have i plastic ring please?)I can't where watches that have a metal back to it and when I was little I wouldn't wear jeans (or pants with that button/snap) or any type of metal closer, But I am over it mostly. I am fine with zippers, don't like them metal ones though, love plastic ones.

I am so thank full that I got my mom's teeth = I don't need braces. Even if i needed them I don't think I could survive. I can't have metal like that in my mouth. I am fine with some silverware, as long as it doesn't have little grits in it, I need it smooth, we have a few silverware that is like that add when ever I accidentally touch it it sends a shiver down my spine, same as in antique shops. When I go to someone else's house or restaurant with out the kind i need, I just push though it.

It is really annoying that I do discus and shot in Track and Field, discus is better because my school has plastic ones (phew!) but shot (though I am not great at it), Ugh, just thinking about it sends a shiver down my spine. I hate it because it makes my hands smell terrible.

Money. Oh my god I hate it so much it is gross, not only the coins but the bills as well, you know that it is kind of metaly, I try to handle it the lest I can. Also I hate keys, when I was little i got away with it because I was terrible using them, but not now. I can't even explain how much I hate it.

I don't know what to do, because I have never talked about it, just avoided it. I am so thankful that here we can all just pour it all out.
Mar 31, 2015
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starstarstarstarstar 		Same-ish...
by: Anonymous

I hate touching some metal, not all. It makes me feel gross, and my hands smell as well, I hate that. I just push though it and wash my hands (I try to always keep hand sanitizer with me at all times). Painted or tin is fine and metals like that but I hate antique shops (which is bad because on holidays my sister and mother go in them a lot, Ugh!) and money as well, also combination locks ( I am still in school). when I touch metal that is the type i hate I get this feeling all over my body and tense up.
Mar 08, 2015
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starstarstarstarstar 		Your not alone :)
by: Anonymous

I don't think I have a phobia of metal but I just really hate metal rubbing together or just the noises of metal sometimes I get a headache from it or my ears just really hurt and I really don't like the smell of metal it smells disgusting after I get that smell on my hands I HAVE to go wash it off but I'm glad I'm not the only one :D
Feb 22, 2015
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starstarstarstarstar 		**** HEAVY METAL TREATMENT *******
by: Samantha

It's super annoying when people speculate what the problem might be after telling others what's happening with you and you hear all these random, superficial comments like, "I read an article on cilantro, i think you should eat that, you'll be fine" or whatever. I don't have the metal problem to the extent that some here have (can still use metal utensils but find myself preferring some over others... then other ones i haven't seen, like ceramic bugs me, i still use it when i have to but find my fingers getting achey and 'creepy' when i do). Also hate change, etc. Anyway.

Turns out i have really bad heavy metal toxicity, had my hair tested. Saw description of someone being toxic described as a cup full to the brim, and one more drop making the whole thing spill over. So that's what seems to be going on with me, and chemicals too i'm sensitive to.. like one more drop of metals/chemicals even by touching/smelling makes me 'spill over' and get a negative reaction. Again, no to be annoying, just putting it out there. the consultant, this isn't a money thing just she's been really knowledgeable and sweet, i use is julie casper: julie@ healthelite.org I got hooked up with her through drlwilson.com (the site looks like the unibomber wrote it, he's bent on getting info out certainly not looking 'commercial' but he has the most centralized source of info on hair analysis, which is the test to find out if you're toxic). again, hope this doesn't come off as a sell or annoying, just that i'm trying to figure it out myself and thought i'd just put it out there in case someone else is interested. xoxoxox Sam
Feb 04, 2015
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starstarstarstarstar 		Makes brain rattle
by: Mom

My 9 yr old son, has avoided metal utensils for as long as I can remember. I don't think it was always a problem, but he really ate with his hands quite a bit in younger years, so maybe it was that. He says it makes his "brain rattle". He is also ADHD, so thought that might be a factor. I was worried it might be more an autism symptom, so I'm relieved to read many "average" people are affected too. Wondering if anyone has tried hypnotherapy? Thanks everyone, for sharing! Now I know not to tell him to, "just get over it."
Dec 29, 2014
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starstarstarstarstar 		Copper is the worst for me!
by: Anonymous

I don't have a phobia of metal but I really dislike the smell of it, especially untreated metal, like copper plumbing parts (my husband used to do lots of plumbing). The smell stays on your hands and sends shivers on my spine
Dec 14, 2014
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starstarstarstarstar 		metal
by: Susan Cloud

I hate metal rubbing together or someone biting siverware. Also silverware scrapping dishes. It hurts my teeth.
Dec 14, 2014
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starstarstarstarstar 		my son
by: Anonymous

when my son scratches he says it gives him goose bumps my son hates jeans,tight clothes ect.
Dec 03, 2014
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starstarstarstarstar 		ugh!
by: Anonymous

I have always struggled with metal as well. I'm really glad to see that it's not just me! The worst for me is the sound of coins being tossed around together. Pennies are the worst for me, everytime i touch a penny I have to instantly pull out the hand sanitizer to get the smell off my hands, and even after that I still feel uncomfortable.

My father would always jingle around the change in his pockets and I would freak out and instantly feel anxious and agitated from it. I cannot stand to hear men doing this! The weirdest reaction I get from the sound of it is in my teeth. Hearing metal on metal (change especially) makes my teeth feel soo sensitive and almost painful. It's so uncomfortable living with this!!!
Nov 25, 2014
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starstarstarstarstar 		Finally !
by: Anonymous

great to see I am not alone with this !! I think it is high time that a proper online community is set up for people facing this issue - I have hence created a Facebook page on the topic, and invite everyone to "like" it and share your stories there :

https://www.facebook.com/metallophobia.community

Hopefully I will see many of you soon, and makes me feel less like a freak :)
Nov 21, 2014
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starstarstarstarstar 		Thought I was the only one..
by: Anonymous

I am 16 years old and I have no idea when this started. Coins, jewelry, and keys disgust me. I cringe when I think about them and I dread touching them. If any coins, keys, or jewelry are wet, it makes me sick. And pennies are my worst nightmare! I am still able to deal with different metals though. I do strength training and I'm able to touch the metal bars or touch door knobs and metal eating utensils.

But I'm just really glad to hear I'm not the only one. I felt so alone and absolutely crazy! All you can really do is just avoid it though :)
Nov 09, 2014
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starstarstarstarstar 		i hate metal
by: Anonymous

I thank God I am not the only one that hate the metal ..can't stand someone hitting metals even d sounds sometimes irritates me .I'm very happy finding people like me.
Nov 03, 2014
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starstarstarstarstar 		Cutlery suddenly smells like chemical
by: Anonymous

I only read a couple of comments regarding the metal touching people's teeth and being annoyed with it.

In my case, and this only started happening a couple of days ago, I have developed an extremely strong sense of stainless steel smell. I thought something was wrong with my cutlery so for the past 2 days I have washed it all in hot soapy water, cleaned out the dish drawer and still smell this awful metal/chemical smell on the cutlery. I smell the pots and they are ok. Just the cutlery!? Weird!!! Would like to know if anyone else has encountered this situation.
Oct 12, 2014
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starstarstarstarstar 		It gives me Goosebumps!
by: Anonymous

The sound of metal against metal, the sound of people tapping or scrapping metal utensils against their teeth (even if its on tv) , when I have metal touch my teeth, the sound of scrunching up alfoil, even just thinking about all of the above (even while typing this) it makes my skin shiver, makes my hairs stand on end & gives me goosebumps. I even keep puting off going to the dentist because of this. Would l love to know if there is a name for this...
Oct 05, 2014
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starstarstarstarstar 		I hate metal!
by: Anonymous

Wow, this is so strange/comforting to know that I am not alone feeling like this... I have hated metal touching me my whole life... I remember as a kid, my mom wanted me to wear jewelry and I just would have fits over hit, I couldn't stand it! To this day, I am now 49, I am still unable to date a man who wears jewelry, I have to wash my hands several times if I have to touch keys, coins, jewelry, nails, screws, I can't eat with certain types of cutlery, the worst being silver. The mere thought of touching these things makes me feel nauseous and highly anxious. I too am an introverted highly sensitive person.

Thanks for sharing your comments, it makes me feel 'not as weird' as I thought I was :)
Aug 15, 2014
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starstarstarstarstar 		it hurts my head
by: Anonymous

This has bothered me my whole life. My parents had a metal sink, when it was my turn to do dishes i couldn't do utensils. Thin metals are unbearable for me. now glass plates on stone or glass also hurts. Dry skin makes it worse. I also have sarcoidosis and psoriasis but dont know if they are related to this problem.
Jul 31, 2014
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starstarstarstarstar 		Meta pens and knifes and forks ahhhh
by: Simon

It is strange but comforting to know you are not the only one. I am 47, when I touch metal pens it hurts, my wife thinks I am odd (and I suppose in many ways we all are!), I also eat using plastic cutlery and plates only. I am not an introvert which helps, as I do not mind other people knowing.

I would love to understand why I react but at least knowing others struggle makes me feel less isolated.

For sound issues there is something called misophonia, it's reality new so spellchecker doesn't like it! If you struggle with sound sensitivity it might be worth checking this out.
Jul 28, 2014
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starstarstarstarstar 		The Teeth…eek
by: Anonymous

Everytime I see metal utensils, metal utensils touch my teeth or even think of metal utensils (but only utensils) I have this jittery feeling, and the front two teeth has this jitter and my mouth tastes metal. Bleaurgh. But if happens at random, I'm not affected by it all times.
Jul 22, 2014
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starstarstarstarstar 		I do to
by: Anonymous

I have the same problem I hate when metal and metal rub together or the smell after touching money I have to wash my hands right away it makes me get Cold chill and I just feel nasty
Jun 27, 2014
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starstarstarstarstar 		I thought I was alone
by: Anonymous

I can't touch metal or think about it without getting a really weird feeling in between my two front teeth bottoms row its awful! I can't even think about metal Ughhhhhhh it's sooo annoying!
Jun 13, 2014
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starstarstarstarstar 		The sound and rub of metal
by: Anonymous

I never thought I would ever find anyone with the same problem. I cant stand the sound of metal especially iron. But it isnt a secret because if I hear the sound of anyone rubbing their skin on metal..like a metal bed or a rusted piece of anything it makes me furious and angry within seconds and so my frnds and family are aware of this. Apart from that I cant walk barefoot on the floor and cant hear anyone walking barefoot. My mom wanted to take me to a psychiatrist when I was a kid. I tried to get used to it but didnt work and never will. It will irritate me for the rest of my life. :(
Jun 03, 2014
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starstarstarstarstar 		I hate iron the most
by: Anonymous

I hate the smell of iron. Also I would die (literally) if I hear the metal screeching sound for long. I don't understand why am I born so sensitive.
I have following sensitivity.
I am extremely sensitive to screeching sound of rubbing metal.
Sensitive to many food eg- lactose, nuts glutton at times etc
Coffee gives me anxiety.
I like to warm myself in sunlight in the morning before food(like a reptile). Also, too much heat gives me headache.
Sensitive to people. I feel terribly uncomfortable with people I am not too friendly with(very shy).
My skin is still a baby skin. Very soft.
I look very young (half my age or less).
I never fall sick.
I am sensitive to the smell of iron.
My teeth is very sensitive to sour food.
I can tell what other people feel in their heart.
I don't remember what other sensitivities I may have. Sometime I feel I am very different and belong to some other place.
haha do any of you feel the same way. If you want, contact me at partho2525@gmail.com
May 13, 2014
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starstarstarstarstar 		Figured it out
by: Anonymous

I posted on here previously and have since been doing research. I didn't know how someone gets a sensory disorder like ours. Per the comments below there are a lot of guesses... And it is not MS. We are all introverts. It is completely normal. 70-80% of everyone with a sensory disorder are introverts. All introverts have some sort of sensory disorder. I fall into this category, so does my brother and my friends son who also both have the same issues with metal. Doing research on it from Elaine Aron PHD and Sophia Dembling has helped me understand how simple of an answer it is. Hope this helps everyone.
May 08, 2014
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starstarstarstarstar 		I understand this completely!
by: Anonymous

Holy god, I never thought I'd read about anyone else with the same issues as me. I HATE the sound, smell and sensation of anything metal. After I handle change or a key I have to go wash my hands because they smell so bad, after I touch a doorknob I have to wipe my hand against my jeans (not just to get rid of the scent but to override the lingering old sensation with a new one, so to speak) and even seeing or hearing someone else use silverware can literally make me wince. I'm seriously considering carrying around metal or wooden utensils or even chopsticks to restaurants but I'm worried about how that might seem (like I'm a germophobe for instance.) I'm also kind of weird about certain textures touching my hands or feet in general, really just means I can't go barefoot on a lot of surfaces, but metal is far and away the worst. Until I was in college I just sort of assumed everyone was like this and never questioned it, how silly, right?
Apr 03, 2014
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starstarstarstarstar 		what causes this?
by: garrid wisconsin

Im 28 , i don't know or remember how long ive had this issue with metal same as everyone else basically especially when i wash the dishes the silverware makes it real bad for a while even after
Mar 08, 2014
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starstarstarstarstar 		Post about MS
by: Anonymous

I posted awhile ago and come back to see new comments frequently. I just saw the MS comment that is interesting. I've had the aversion to metal most of my life but was diagnosed with MS last year. Would be interesting to know how many of us have MS.
Mar 08, 2014
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starstarstarstarstar 		metal sensitivity and other illnesses
by: Anonymous

My friend only became sensitive to metal after her diagnosis of M.S. Is there a relation?
Mar 08, 2014
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		metal allergies
by: Anonymous

Sometimes it's not just all in your head. Has anyone been tested for metal allergies or Wilson's disease?

Do you have muscle spasms?
Twitching of the muscles including eyes?
fatigue?
Tense muscles?
Migraines?

Start drinking water that is either distilled or reverse osmosis.

Review your family history to see if there is a history of bad memory, psychiatric issues, aggression, social anxiety, aspergers, autism, metal sensitivities, liver problems, kidney problems, brain swelling etc..
Feb 25, 2014
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starstarstarstarstar 		I dont like Metal Your not alone
by: Anonymous

I do not like metal in my room. To much metal bothers me.
Feb 22, 2014
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starstarstarstarstar 		Me too!
by: Anonymous

I'm dying to know what causes this. I'm in my 30s and ever since I was a kid I won't touch utensils, keys or coins due to the smell. It makes me want to grind my teeth and take a shower. I don't keep it a secret. I have a drawer of plastic utensils and carry some with me everywhere I go. Urban Outfitters sell rubber key covers that I put over my car keys etc and I don't take or have change. My little brother, whom I have never lived with has the exact same issues with metal and neither of us know why. I even cook with glass cookware. If anyone knows what causes this... I've been reading through the posts and I would hope some doctor out there has done research on this.
Jan 24, 2014
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starstarstarstarstar 		Wow!
by: Rich Parisi

For me its mainly the sound or even the thought of,it. If someone scrapes Silverman are against a plate...forget it. If its loud and abrupt I will literally freeze up, conoltort, sometimes emit a stranges sound and drop what ever I am holding to put my hands to to my ears and flail as ifcsatan himself was screaming in my ear at some pitch intended solely to torture some one exorbitantly. It's been like that as long as I can remember. Even onceI hear it, even if short and abrupt...I will think about it and have the same reaction. My ears throb, my teeth hurt and I will sometimes gag and dry-heave. Reading these comments really surprised me. I figured it.stemmed from something that bother people may have similar experiences/ issues with. But not EXACT similariti s like I have read. It is xomforting to know that im not some obscure scenario and will definitely feel better about finally talking to my doctor about.
Dec 29, 2013
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starstarstarstarstar 		to anonymous 11year old...
by: Melissa J.

I wrote this thread in 2008. Thousands of people have read this site and a few have shared their story. You are not alone! You are not weird! You are brave! ! Stay brave... tell your Mum! If I knew my daughter was struggling and couldn't come to me I would be heart broken! It may be difficult for your Mum at first but maybe show her this site. Be patient she will come around. You need support from your family and I pray that they will be there for you with love and understanding! Talk to your Mum. Good luck!
Dec 29, 2013
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starstarstarstarstar 		Metal disorder??
by: Anonymous

I really hate touching metals. I didn't tell my family as I thought they would think I'm wierd. I'm 11. I remember my parents telling me once that when I was teething I never chewed keys. I hate piles of metal ie money, keys or jewelry being on the table whilst I'm eating, if it ever is I feel like gagging. I've never worn jewelry except from cotton bracelets and things like that. I can just about deal with ear rings though. When ever I have to hold keys, money, metal jewelry, even old rusty door handles, I get all clammy and sweaty. I often suffer from head aches and have recently had to get glasses. Is this related??please can someone help me? I really don't know how to tell my parents, as I remember telling my mum once and she had a go at me, telling me how she have to buy me plastic cutlery. I think she has forgotten now. We're recently moved to a rather old house so they keys are quite brown and smell of that metally smell, which makes me gag like mad. My parents gave me a key and told me to wear it around my neck on a cord, I adamantly refused, so they took it away from me. I really don't want to have to deal with this on my own anymore, does anyone have a name for this so i can at east start somewhere on telling someone??
Dec 03, 2013
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starstarstarstarstar 		Anyone Else?
by: Leah

Not sure if anyone still reads this thread but my "issue" isn't as severe as some of others here (no offense) i really dislike touching coins like money coins, old nasty looking doorknobs and absolutely keys, I don't know why it doesn't have anything to do with germs maybe the smell I don't know ? I don't have a problem with jewelry like even the fake jewelry that can smell funny from time to time no problem at all, but to watch people play with coins like spin them on a table or flip a coin or just anything really grosses me out like when I really try so hard to avoid having to touch coins, etc. the only smell that really bothers me is weights at the gym the little dumb bells that leave a weird smell on your hand but idk the whole thing is weird to me, as im getting older I'm beginning to tolerate it more but I was just always curious is they're was anyone else like this or why I felt this way I definitely don't think I have the hsp problem though.
Nov 07, 2013
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starstarstarstarstar 		METAL SICK
by: Lisa

Hi. I am a 37 yr old woman and usually have no problem with any metal......until I am sick.
I have not had a fever since I was 12 yrs old, but now, EVERYTIME since then that I am sick, touching metal feels like it burns. It makes my whole body ache. I feel like I want to shrink away from it.
This also happens to my daughter, but not my son. I have no idea why.
Has anyone ever heard of this hypersensitivity before?
Oct 20, 2013
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starstarstarstar 		Omg same
by: Anonymous

My mum has a set of keys which are going brownish cuz the are old, and I just can't eat around them, it's the same with money. It just is a horrible feeling, my family don't know so think I'm really weird when I don't touch money. I can't do key chains or anything either. I don't have pendent sand stuff hanging off chains from my back pack, and it kills me when a friend invites me to a party to make charm braclets. Does anŷone know a way to stop this??
Sep 24, 2013
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starstarstarstar 		You all MIGHT be HSPs
by: Kelli Jae Baeli

Are any of you familiar with HSPs? Highly Sensitive People have this problem, and it is called, in the literature, Sensory Processing SENSITIVITY. If you are HSP, it's NOT a disorder, it's a brain architecture found in about 20% of the human population, and in about 100 species of animals.
Look up the work of Dr. Elaine Aron, and Google HSP.

I'm an HSP, and when i discovered this and read the literature, it explained so much about me, and helped me deal with it better. I've written about it quite a bit at my blog http://jaebaeli.com/blog
Jul 22, 2013
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starstarstarstarstar 		Sudden onset
by: Anonymous

So....I have never had an issue with the sound of metal scrapping metal, but all of the sudden not only the sound, but the thought of the sound sends shivers through my body. I am now in my 40's and this just started. I recently had dental work done that included lots of drilling and grinding...could that be the trigger? This is very strange...any thoughts or comments are welcome and appreciated.
Jul 06, 2013
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starstarstarstarstar 		Am I crazy?
by: AnonymousFort

Thanks for posting this, I share the same problems too. I totally dislike the idea of using metal cutleries, holding coins, door knobs,keys etc

I am 17 now and often find myself having to use my clothing to open door knobs that are metallic or taps, and when i was younger i had to take my plastic cutlery to parties and restaurants for food transportation. I have had a difficult time hanging out with friends who also wear jeweleries and UGH! I dislike piercings so so much and the 2p coin is a major obstacle (absolutely neglect cions aswell). I dream of having a house with nothing of a metallic nature in it.
I, just, dislike, metal.
Jun 28, 2013
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starstarstarstarstar 		I selectively hate metal.
by: Kristen

For me, the most intolerable things are course metal and metal touching other metal. I'll now eat off metal flatware (I used to bring my own plastic utensils to restaurants), but I will never let the flatware touch each other and will never allow the metal to come into direct contact with my mouth. I have to know someone pretty well to eat with them, because they have to follow my rules or it's going to be horribly unpleasant for me. I almost always eat alone at work.
I will wear necklaces and bracelets if they're smooth and shiny, but never rings. Having metal on my hands feels yucky and there's too much of a chance that the ring with come in contact with another metal object. I don't even have a wedding ring. I would never tolerate wearing it, so I asked my husband not to get me one.
I will touch coins on occasion, but have to wash my hands immediately afterwards.
Doorknobs are OK if they're smooth and shiny. If they're course, they get replaced or I open them with a piece of cloth as a buffer.
I have plastic washtubs in my metal kitchen sink. No dishes can be set in the metal sink directly or I won't even go in the kitchen- at least not without getting a tension headache.
Metal trash cans make me squirm, but I'll use them if I don't have to pick them up to empty them and if I'm not throwing away something metal.
My house keys are the enamel coated ones and and my car key has a plastic part on the top that I hold onto.
A metal spoon stirring inside a metal pan makes me go crazy.
The smell of metal is mildly unpleasant because it reminds me of touching metal. Other than that, I don't have a problem with the smell.
I've never met someone who has metal aversions like I do, so it was good to find this thread and discover that there are others out there.
Apr 04, 2013
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starstarstarstarstar 		I cringe at anything metal related...
by: Rhianna

I have similar things happen to me. It started off with just the sound of metal moving against another object and the smell that would give me the shivers and a bad feeling would spread through my body. Once I started to actually pay attention to the fact that it bugged me it got worse. Now I can't handle money, but if I have to I carry it between my sleeve and only touch it when handing it over. I don't use metal cutlery. To me the metal feels like it is contaminating the food and I can taste the difference and then I don't enjoy my food. Touching metal feels like it is getting under my skin and afterwards I try to rub my hands together or against my shirt and they still feel gross. Washing my hands does make it better, except for the smell. Even though I know that this is all mind over matter, it still grosses me out and it's getting worse. I find myself not wanting to eat meals around people because the sound of their cutlery is too distracting and makes me cringe. I don't think it is scary as such for your son to touch metal, just a gross feeling. I have tried facing metal and getting over it but it doesn't change anything, if not add to it. Something to take his mind off it while it is around might work and over time could cure this disgust towards metal. Unfortunately, I can't try anything like this myself because I couldn't trick myself. Haha!
Mar 07, 2013
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starstarstarstarstar 		well..
by: tucker

well i have a differant issue i do not have a isue i cant touch any metal i can NOT EAT WITH METAL i can NOT touch all kinds of metal but most i do not think this is crazy becuse i have something simler with metal let me repeat THIS IS NOT CRAZY WHY SOME KIDS OR ADULTS HAVE THIS! i can touch MOST not all kinds but most kinds of metal what i canot do is EAT wwith metal utinsiles or nothing simler to that cuz when it scraps a plate or here let me put it this way
(for me metal utinsiles on teeth are finger nails on a choulk boared for u) yes thats how terribe maybe even worse,
Mar 01, 2013
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starstarstarstarstar 		to "lolz"
by: Anonymous

I understand how you could think that all of us are crazy because we are. If you've never had to deal with this then you can't understand it. Trust me, as a child my parents forced me to touch coins and I would, but it never stopped me from wanting to puke or cry or something. It's a horrible and real feeling and because you've never had to go through it, you can not understand.
Feb 25, 2013
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starstarstarstarstar 		wood ring with a 10g diamond on the top
by: Anonymous

starstarstarstarstar @Wooden Jewelry
@ Sponge
lol made rings from plastic or woods. u know in my whole life i never put a ring on or bracelets that has metals in it. thanks for telling me the glass rings, i'll make sure he makes that expensive ring (that's when i find the right guy. (:
Feb 25, 2013
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starstarstarstarstar 		@Wooden Jewelry
by: Sponge

Excellent suggestion! Having a wedding ring made out of some really nice wood would be a great alternative. I was worried about it for a very long time also and eventually had one made from glass/crystal as another alternative. It's more expensive, not as 'unconventional' yet still always sparks interest when people notice it. :)
Feb 24, 2013
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starstarstarstarstar 		Nicely put and thank you
by: Anonymous

I cringed when I read that post, almost as much as when somebody bites their fork :-)
Thank you for the kind way you responded to that . . . person. I say ignorant but not in a stupid bad way. I think if you don't have this darn thing - you really can't understand it or how it affects your life. So that makes that person ignorant - without knowledge, not stupid - just lacking any understanding. I have it so much better than so many of you - I feel terrible for you. I can wear jewelry and I can handle coins. Putting a key in the lock - gets me everytime. Pizza on a metal plate is fine, but the metal utensil they give you to slide under and serve a piece - oh my gosh - makes me shiver. Somebody stirring anything in a metal pot with a metal utensil - I'm done - literally makes me start to shake - releases a nasty metal taste in my mouth. And the worst is the fork biting - why do so many people have to bite their fork. I have seen people bite their spoon when they are eating soup!! Makes me crazy. My dentist does all she can with the hydraulic tool and keeps the scraping with the metal instrument to the least possible. I avoided the Dentist for a long time - because I just couldn't handle the metal scraping my teeth. Thank you all for all your posts. I too thought I was crazy - and people think I'm crazy. It is so good to know that I am not a total freak - that this is a real thing - that other people are suffering, some much worse than me.
Feb 24, 2013
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starstarstarstarstar 		Respect or don't post
by: Anonymous

I have written twice on here. I won't be able to control what that person said, but I can spread a little comfort (I hope) by trying to explain to ALL that the definition of a phobia is that it is IRRATIONAL. You can't reason your way out of it, you can't use horses to get over it, you can't use therapy. It's like people with heights or spiders. They don't get less upsetting as you get older, you just learn how to shape any affected things in your life so that you are more comfortable while keeping it the least disruptive to other people. This is a very unusual phobia and a very unusual (the only) place people come to talk about it, no one is really using the Facebook group. This is a true plea for: if you can't say something nice, or you're not one of us, think of all the places on the internet you could post besides our little corner.
Feb 23, 2013
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		get chills when i hear metal noises,
by: Anonymous

hi while back i made a comment; i was the one who made the comment about hating metals and my aunt never used fork or spoon. my parents took me to a therapy and the lady thought I’ll get better if I face my fear but thanks to her now I’m in worse condition. I am actually 24 yrs old and I had this problem since I was about 2 yrs old but got better. I was in my 4th year in Ohio State university medical school and would have graduate this march 2013 but I dropped out. Thanks to that therapy now, I am in worse condition and she gave me depression medicine. Of course, I did not take that damn medicine (lol, now I’m literally depressed). I used to be ok for seeing metals and sometimes it did not bothered me that much unless I scratch it or someone scratches it. But since I went to that therapy just seeing it makes me sick and I haven’t got out of home since September 27. I know I sound like a crazy person but I’m taking baby steps to get on my life and start new life. To be honest it’s not easy to start a new career and a new life. also, the biggest obstacle isn’t me going outside and being afraid of seeing metals, it’s disappointing my family. They really were looking forward for me being a doc and starting my residence on same year. It’s hard for telling them I cant touch or get near to scalpel, lancet and every equipment that school had. At first I hesitated and took two quarters off but finally decided cant be in that profession. Any ways I hope we could find answer for this but for now let’s be strong. Furthermore, I hope that you never take ur kids to a therapy.
I hope u guys take heed on this warning please don’t ever take a therapy to ur child or u go ‘cause facing ur fear wont help it.
by the way i'm from Nework,Ohio,
Feb 23, 2013
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starstarstarstarstar 		Country insights
by: Anonymous

Dear Lolz,
I would like you to know that I was brought up on my fathers farm. We handled horse bits, ran around in metal lined pig pens. Handled metal farm machinery. As for climbing hay and straw stacks, this was a regular event with my brother. I was not born with a metal dislike, it came suddently-later on in my childhood. I still remember the day, and at that time I remember questioning myself, 'why I was finding it suddenly difficult to put a metal bin lid on a metal bin?'. I had been handling this for years before.I'm sorry but I don't think you understand the condition-Your thoughts would change if you were to experience it.
Feb 23, 2013
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starstarstarstarstar 		Lolz
by: Country Insight

Damn... if i ever did that as a child i was sure to see the underside of my father's shoe, or the back of his hand. Stop treating your kids like they belong in a glass menagerie and maybe these issues wouldn't come up.

If you can get your kid involved with horses at a young age, then even things that make you gag would be tolerable for them! (ever seen a kid pick up a "road apple" bare handed? yeah, we hosed him off)

An added advantage is getting your kids used to the outdoor conditions, especially grassy places full of dust. I silently thank my mother whenever I see a friend struggling with allergies, since I'm just not allergic to anything.

Another great activity at barns is playing in the hay stacks (be sure to keep a close eye if you cant hear your youngin). Their little bodies get used to the common irritants early on, and save them down the road when it comes time to get a summer job cutting lawns.

Talk about the smelly metal. Have you ever handles a brass horse bit? That is revolting enough to send your youngin into shock. If your child can interact well with horses, then you can pat yourself on the back for likely preventing them from a life full of runny noses and dirty phobias.

Just my $0.02. Hope it gets you thinking.
Feb 21, 2013
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starstarstarstarstar 		Fear of touching coins, keys, and jewelry
by: BlinkBabe

I'm so happy I found this thread! I honestly thought I was the only one with this fear/aversion to certain metals. As long as I can remember I've been scared/disgusted by coins, jewelry, keys, and sometimes zippers on clothing. Any kind of loose change disgusts me but as other people have mentioned, pennies are the worst. Especially, wet pennies. Gag. They just smell so revolting to me and thought of touching them makes me sick to my stomach.
It's been the same for jewelry, people have just always assumed it's not my style to wear any jewelry but the truth is I can't even imagine letting it touch my skin.
As I've gotten older (I'm 21 now), I've been forced to overcome my fear and can handle touching keys now and because of my job I come into contact with coins on daily basis but I still have to wash my hands constantly.
I recently just mentioned my fear to my parents, (I never told anyone all these years cuz I felt my fear was just to bizarre) and I discovered my dad has had the same fear all his life as well. He never told anyone either. This makes me wonder, in my case at least, if it could be hereditary?
Feb 11, 2013
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starstarstarstarstar 		Aversion
by: gia

For as long as I remember I've had a gag-inducing aversion to the sound of cutlery touching cutlery, or any metal scraping metal noise. However, coins have never affected me and I can wear jewelry, I wonder if I just have a muted down version of the phobia as its really just cutlery and some other metal scraping noises. It still bothers me really bad, but does not affect my life at all. Weird!
Jan 25, 2013
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starstarstarstarstar 		me again
by: Anonymous

Hi everyone--there are 2 comments from November 29 and mine is the longer one, (I don't know a better way to say who I am :) and I just wanted to say hello, welcome, and empathize with everyone on here that's written since I have. I see that a lot of you are much more severe than I am, I would never have known that there are different degrees of this thing. Like for a lot of you it seems like it's a compulsion to wash your hands, i.e. the after-effects of touching it. I don't have that, I just won't (well, whenEVER possible) touch it. As soon as it's gone, I'm fine. Do people feel comfortable enough to say where they're from? If any of us are near each other wouldn't it be great to get together and talk about it over some food and plasticware? :)

I'm in Maryland, USA.

ALSO, in case you haven't read all the way back, someone here started a Facebook page. We haven't really been using it, but there's no reason not to, please feel free to join it. You can find it here:

https://www.facebook.com/nometal.forme?ref=ts&fref=ts
Jan 25, 2013
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starstarstarstarstar 		Same
by: Anonymous

I'm 15 and ever since i remember I haven't liked metal. Coins are the worst for me. I always put it in the change box or something when I'm shopping or if my parents tell me to get change out of our spare change tin, i pick one at a time with the tips of my fingers. When I'm shopping I'll have them put the change on receipt or something so it wont touch my hand. If i see pictures of change i get antsy. If I'm in someones car and there is change on the floor I'll kick it under the mat and if there is some on the table at home and I'm doing something around it, I'll cover it with a tissue. When I was little my parents knew I didn't like it and they thought it was because change was dirty and they would wash it, but i still refused to touch it. The thought of it maybe still being wet freaked me out even more. For years of my childhood I wouldn't wear jeans because I hated the way the little metal part pressed on my stomach. I still never unzip or unbutton them, I just get ones that I can pull on and off. And when i have a jacket or bag that doesn't have plastic or cloth on the zipper I have to do it with my sleeve or else i have to immediately wash my hands. And i have certain silverware in my house that I can eat with. Other than that if I'm out somewhere, I wrap my fork with a napkin and touch it to my mouth as little as possible. It's a hard thing to live with and no one understands so I've never told anyone. It's good to get it out there.
Jan 20, 2013
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starstarstarstarstar 		Wooden Jewelry
by: Anonymous

Hello,
I very very very rarely have ever commented on a message board or anything, but I've had this all my life and never met anyone else with the problem. I just wanted to say that I recently got married and I have a huge problem with jewelry, like most of you, to the point that I didn't like writing the word in this post. I wanted to let people know an option I took. When I got married I got a ring made entirely of wood. As some of you probably know, it can be really socially awkward to be the only person who doesn't wear jewelry, or when a friend asks you to hold their ring or something and you shudder and freak out until they take it back. Well I kept getting asked about a wedding ring and why I didn't have one. People would think I was either single or unhappy in my marriage. People still think it's weird that my ring is wood, but at least now I don't feel as weird because I do have a ring, it's just "weird" looking to people and not crazy expensive or shiny. I just tell them I'm a tree-hugger and being environmentally friendly. Which in part is true. I love nature. But most of it is just that I cannot, CANNOT, wear a real ring.

Hope this helps someone. :-)
Jan 08, 2013
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starstarstarstarstar 		I am the same
by: Kate

I have always had an issue with metal, I got over cutlery pretty fast (thankfully), and I am able to tolerate jewellery a lot more now (but I don't wear it) but I just can't stand keys, metal key chains, and money! I even gag at the word! I have told my mum before but she keeps forgetting and i am soo soo embarrassed of this phobia and I've never told my dad who is alway got the car keys and my mum is a bit the same. Sometimes they hug me whilst holding the keys and I freak out inside but I can't say anything so I just brave it. I always feel so gross if I touch these metals even if it just touches my clothes or shoes etc. i have this severe after feeling though (nothing allergic) a sense of the filfth of it is still there, after touching money or keys i have to scrub my hands with soap multiple times before i will touch my face or anyotherpart of me or my clothes. if i cant wash my hands, i will scrub my hand on some external fabric surface for trmporary relief. I won't even sit on a seat if someone has put their keys on it or something else which has touched their keys :s I'm 17, and when I turned 16 and got my lisence, it was really hard because I had to take the car keys etc and my dad an sister would always throw the car keys to me and I would always purposely drop or miss te catch and disguise it as a lack of coordination. In year 7 one of my friends was studying phobias as her project and she once said to me "omg did you know people have a phobia of touching money! How weird" and so you can imagine that I was feeling kind of awkward since she picked this phobia out of every phobia that exists in the world!

I m so glad this thread is here because I've never met anyone with the same/similar phobia (maybe they are also embarrassingly hiding it) and its nice to know that there are others out there that understand this issue. :) all I can say now is be strong and carry hand sanitizer or wear gloves!
Jan 04, 2013
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starstarstarstarstar 		I can't touch metal
by: Lynn

Hi all, I am so pleased I am not the only one with this problem. I am 51 and have been battling with this since my childhood. I just cannot touch metal, which includes handling money, cutlery, pots and pans etc. It all sends shivers down my spine. Some meals I have had to abort being totally unable to cope with the cutlery. In fear of being labeled as stupid I have not mentioned this problem until recently-and it has been a hard one to hide all my life.

However,I have now come up with other problems, so i now wonder whether this metal incapability is having other effects. Basically my walking has become very uncontrolled, and surprisingly my friend who has MS has also just told me today that said she can no longer touch metal.Is there a link somewhere? (My walking problem is currently undiagnosed)
Dec 28, 2012
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starstarstarstarstar 		I have TE same phobia
by: Lindsey

Hi, my name is lindsey I am a college student and I have had a metal phobia since I was in kindergarten. I am now 19 and. I don't open doors with my hands, instead I cover my hand with a sleeve. I also do not use money coin money, I only use dollar bills, or a debt card. I advisor metal at all cost. I even eat with plastic silver wear. My doctor told my mom that I would grow out of this stage, but I haven't. It had improved over the years but has not gone away. If I have to touch metal for any reason I carry around bath and body works hand sanitizer. It makes the metal smell go away. And with my keys they all have key covers. There is a way to avoid the metal. I am not on medication at all, and I very happy. My mom told me it was a hard adjustment when I got my phobia. Was there an incident that happen to create the phobia. For me, I put a necklace from my schools play ground in my mouth, and never used metal again. It can be something small. I hope this is helpful to you. And if you would like some help or ideas feel free to comment back if you would like my email.
Dec 20, 2012
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starstarstarstarstar 		Callum:
by: Anonymous

Callum--I shouldn't speak for other people, but for my part and many people on this forum and others, this is a phobia, not an allergy. It's not that there are physiological reactions, just strong aversions. So playing around with metals would not only be super-unpleasant, but also fruitless.
Dec 19, 2012
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starstarstarstarstar 		Dental scaling is the worst!!!
by: Anonymous

So glad to know that I am not the only one. I am 42 years old and have never been able to stand the sound of metal touching metal. The only thing worse is metal touching teeth. I cringe just thinking about it...gives me chills and shivers. For years I would only use plastic cutlery. As you can imagine the dentist is an ordeal beyond on compare. I try to suck it up, my whole body tenses as I clutch the armrests with my white knuckles while the hygienist scrapes away. They always ask if they are hurting me and I try to tell them, “no I just have that aversion to metal in my mouth thing” they always react as if they have never heard of such a thing. I wish somebody would invent plastic dental tools. Good look fellow metal aversion sufferers ;)
Nov 14, 2012
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starstarstarstar 		My perspective
by: Callum

Hi I am 13 and my brother is 10. He does not eat any meals with the family because he does not like the noise of forks and knifes scraping or hitting plates. He has to eat outside on the trampoline and if he hears us he swears and screams. I fully respect all the people who have much worse problems like all the metal touching and coin ones. I agree with some peoples solutions such as plastic cutlery, earmuffs and eating prior to everyone. But god dammit these are all temporary. For the unlucky metal sufferers I suggest you try and think around the problem or take a certain metal test: for this you need to look at the periodic table (a scientific reference that most people who have done science know of) most elements are metals so see how many you can get a hold of from purchasing or from your house and BE STRONG! FIGURE OUT WHICH METALS YOU ARE "ALLERGIC" TO AND WHICH YOU ARE NOT. YOU CAN THEN RESEARCH THEM AND 1 BY 1 RESEARCH EACH DISEASE. (ZINC ALLERGIES, COPPER ALLERGIES E.T.C). THEN AVOID THOSE NASTIES! GOOD LUCK !!!!!!!
Oct 30, 2012
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starstarstarstarstar 		get chills when i hear metal noises
by: Anonymous

i'm surprised to see this article. my aunt never ate a food with a fork or spoon 'cause she get's bad headaches when she hears the noise. when ever we go outside she orders things that u don't need for fork n she uses her hands. we also, have to careful making noises. she also, hates to look at it when we r using fork.

i'm not bad as her but i also, get chills when i scrub a metal or scratch it. also, my body get's frozen and my teeth hurts n clinch it whenever they scratch a metal or scrub it. sometimes i shake uncontrollably and my hands freeze whenever i touch a metal.
Oct 24, 2012
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starstarstarstarstar 		metal hitting
by: astronaut

I have this too. Kinda scary when I thought of it. By just imagining the sound of metal hitting one another always fright me. I have even avoided going to the dentist cause I am scared. I am currently 14 years old and told nearly everyone that I know to avoid hitting the metals.Some of them tried to make fun of me. Sometimes, I feel hurt as they tried getting metals to hit. I hope that this matter would be more known and someone can come out with a solution as I think the fear of the sound will limit your choices in this world.
Oct 22, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		glad i'm not alone
by: AG

All of the comments on this page are incredibly comforting, this topic is not widely discussed on the internet, and I have never met anyone with the same problem, and I don't tell many people about it. I have similar issues to a lot of yours. As far back as my memory goes (I'm 23 now) - hated touching coins and jewelry. Silverware too. Any kind of metal gives me a funny unexplainable feeling possibly similar to all of you out there...smaller pieces of metal weird me out more, and wet metal, eww. I have learned to cope with silverware, especially when the metal is thicker (No explanation for this)... but I'm suppressing the discomfort, it never goes away.

A friend of mine who is into New Age stuff made an interesting point that metals and people have an electromagnetic field. Metals can absorb those energies from other living things and some people can pick up on "vibes" from holding metals. Kinda makes ya wonder!

Would love to see research in this, didn't realize how many people had this issue!
Oct 13, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Vaccines and amalgam fillings
by: Anonymous

I get the tingle with certain forks and tin foil.

I think it is from having too much metal in my mouth from the fillings and too much in my blood stream from vaccines. Both have mercury , which is a metal your body does not need!
Sep 17, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Rolling silverware at work dilema
by: Anonymous

I have been working for my company 19 mths I can't roll silverware. My manager made a deal and compromises with me before. Today we have a new manager and he is enforcirious sidework. I am an excellent server, hard woked, I go above and beyond, top seller, top request of customers, certified trainer, and I always do what I have to do or more except silverware. Just like the rest of us I have the scrapping sound metal issues. Now my job is on the line. I love my job and why can't they understand or leave me alone? I am the main bread maker of my home, I have 2 babies 1 & 3 mind you my son was seriously sick for 4 wks, I am backed up in bills trying to catch up and now they may fire me for this silverware issue. I moved out of state I be working here since I moved. I have no family ot no one to turn to if I lost my job. I am alone and at work they laugh at me. I need to keep my job but what should I do?.
Sep 08, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		BE CONFIDENT
by: Tom

Yer ive got all those metal phobias. I noticed a lot of people on here who are worried out how PARTNERS will react and how it will effect dating. SO i thought i'd give some advise as a 23Year old male who dates.

If you want it to not effect your partners or friends, make sure they know that it doesnt effect you. When talking about it be confident, unapologetic, smile and say "yer its a little wierd lol but thats that. Everybody is a little wierd in some ways."

Ive told my girlfriends this and it hasnt effected our relationships at all b/c it doesnt effect me at all. Now my girlfriends dont wear jewelery around me b/c they understand.

anyway- be confident. ;)
Aug 12, 2012
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starstarstarstarstar 		JOIN ME ON FACEBOOK?
by: Anonymous

i APPRECIATE EVERYONE'S WORDS AND SUPPORT ON THIS ISSUE, WITH WHICH I HAVE STRUGGLED FOR OVER 30 YEARS. sorry, didn't mean to shout. I was hoping to read more advice and stories on the web site on Facebook: metal phobia. My greatest aversion is cutlery. Its only ever been plastic for me!
Aug 08, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Directed to Ryan
by: Jonathan Skurtu

I did alot of experimenting on my mind. I know the exact sensation you described. I dont touch coins I tell grocers to keep any change. It makes me feel anxious. I also hate labtops and electronics they give off emf fields that make me feel a tingle in my body. I also avoid cold ceriels they make me feel apathetic like nothing matters and nothing can be changed. I am still looking for that shining community that acknowledges what I described.

I changed my diet to focusing primarily on a healthy digestive system which has released alot of emotional tension
Aug 06, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		i hate touching metal
by: Ryan

I came across your site because I was trying to find other people who have a strong aversion to metal. It seems like its a relatively rare thing. Whenever I try to explain it to others, they usually look at me like I'm crazy. For me, its primarily touching metal that bothers me. If I put my hand on something like stainless steel, it sends a shiver through me. It's like a weak electric charge. Unfortunately many electronic devices these days are made with metal. I much prefer plastic!
Aug 02, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Why your son hates metal
by: Jonathan Skurtu

Go to a gem shop buy your self a piece of Malachite (its a type of crystal with metal in it) hold it until you know why your son hates metal. Then you will know why your son doesn't want to touch metal. It's likely that he would do well living in a field full of various types of trees. And will not do well if exposed to electronics.
Aug 01, 2012
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starstarstarstarstar 		Metal Smells Horrid
by: TIffany

I am a 28 year old female and I cannot buy any of the cute fashion jewelry in the stores because the smell of it makes me gag horribly.Earrings, rings, bracelets, you name it. I am okay with cutlery though. I find it mostly with brass, or coated brass. I have a beautiful vanity in my room with small drawers in it. I use a rag to open the drawers because the tiny brass knobs make me sick to my stomach.

WHY am I so weird like this? Noone seems to understand except a girlfriend whom I showed. She agreed metal smelled pretty bad.
Jul 14, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Hi Bork!
by: Anonymous

Hi Bork! my son asks me to take my enclose or earrings out when i come in to say goodnight... he too smells the metal and has a total issue with it! I accept it now its all good hope you get acceptance too.
Jul 13, 2012
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starstarstarstarstar 		bork
by: Anonymous

I hate seeing my friends put money in their mouth! even now thinking of it makes me bork.
I also hate it when my friends or family are wearing rings, i feel like asking them to take it of because when im eating around them in feel physically sick even looking at it.
Hate ear rings aswell! they smell HORRIBLE.
My friends think im extrememly weird for not liking metal but its just the way i am tbh
Jul 13, 2012
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starstarstarstarstar 		omg
by: chloe

omg exactly the same!
im 14, and my mum thinks im strange?! haha
Everytime i eat i have to get all metal objects out of my sight otherwise i feel sick.
I hate the smell of metal, and holding coins makes me want to bork.
Would love a group to go up about this, then i wont feel alone and we can get over these together!
Hate the embarrasment of going to a resturant and hving to get just chips or something so i can use my fingers and not a knife or fork.
Jul 02, 2012
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starstarstarstarstar 		I want to know what I have going on!
by: Anonymous

I'm in the same boat, sort of.. I am currently sixteen, and ever since I was able to eat I've been absolutely terrified of eating with metal cutlery, and coins are a bother too, the smell, the sound they make, everything. my mom worries, but my dad thinks it's a scheme of mine, but I can guarantee you it is not. My brothers used to mess with me, they'd drop a fork or spoon, and I would freak. The sound is heart wrenching, I want to cover myself with pillows and blankets to block out the noise, and I usually cry. I have a drawer of my own filled with plastic cutlery. I fear going to restaurants or eating at friends houses because of this. I am terrified to be asked out on dates to eat. When my boyfriend found out about my fear, I thought he'd dump me and think i'm crazy, but he is actually very supportive of it. I wonder if this is a phobia, I have yet to find any phobia like it! But, I'm glad i'm not alone.
Jun 28, 2012
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starstarstarstarstar 		I thought I was alone!
by: Anonymous

Ever since I was really little (I'm 21 now) I couldn't stand touching coins or keys, pennies are the worst. I can't wear jewelry, necklaces are disgusting to me. After touching these kinds of metals I HAVE to wash my hands, sometimes I'll even feel physically sick. I'm a little better than I used to be though. I never told anyone because I thought I was alone and people would think I was a freak. Then recently, completely by chance, I found out my dad is the same way; he kept it secret as well. Anyway, I'm so happy I'm not alone feeling this way.
Apr 24, 2012
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starstarstarstarstar 		Metal sensitivity
by: Anonymous

Everyone who is experiencing metal sensitivities should try balancing their chakra's. There are 7 chakra's and each one serves a purpose for our responses and non-responses toward people, events things (metal) etc. Try that and you will be surprised!
Apr 14, 2012
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starstarstarstarstar 		thank god i am not alone in this
by: Anonymous

I am on the facebook page "metal phobia" s\Support for this chronic inability (more than phobia) could be lifesaving. Long live plastic cutlery (and hey, have you tried wooden spoons and forks too?)
Apr 14, 2012
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starstarstarstarstar 		researchj
by: Anonymous

I would do anything to get a research study done on this!
Apr 13, 2012
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starstarstarstarstar 		Perhaps it is related to sensory connections in the brain
by: Anonymous

I just watched a fascinating program on the science channel that is talking about our senses. To See or Not To See. They are explaining how our brains work and how some people's senses are literally more connected in peoples brains than others so for example some people see colors when they taste food. After watching the program, I wonder if perhaps what happens when you taste metal upon hearing metal scrape, or any other of these phenomena, could be that those sensory parts of your brain, taste and hearing, or touch and taste, are more connected and interacting more than they do with other people...like taste and sight do with synesthesia.

It might be fun to participate in research  to find out for sure, but what a relief to think that there might be a very logical reason related to how differently our brains function.
Apr 01, 2012
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starstarstarstarstar 		I hate metal also.
by: Anonymous

I'm sixteen and ever since I was little I HATED to touch metal, I still do. I don't know if its the smell or feel of it but it kind of makes me nauseous. When I was in elementary school I didn't even start wearing jeans until 5th grade because of the zippers and buttons on them. I can't wear necklaces or rings because of the metal. Even today when I go to the store with my parents the have to get the coins from the checkout person.
Mar 06, 2012
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starstarstarstarstar 		yes, finally
by: Anonymous

people ask me all the time and it's hard to explain it to them. i always ask waiters for plasticware. i hate the feeling and sound metal makes in my mouth. sometimes, i can feel electric-like shocks. i always hated the smell of metalware in hot-served plates. sometimes, i'll only use metal in cold cereal, but i'll use my only my lips. all my tools have rubber grips and i wear rubber gloves. coins and cash? i use my debit card for all purchases.
Feb 19, 2012
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starstarstarstarstar 		support group
by: Anonymous

I'd still really like to get a support group going on this - i know someone tried seting up something on facebook, but maybe we could just do a yahoo group? Would anyone join? Email me directly at mellybelly@rogers.com
Feb 13, 2012
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starstarstarstarstar 		Ow my teeth
by: Maggie

What's hilarious about this page, is that the advertisement above is for coins and metals haha
I've had the same problem since I was a child. Although not as drastic as some other peoples in here. Mine is mostly related to Tin, Copper, and aluminum.
The worst things for me are Bobbie pins, tin cups, pennies,
And the absolute worst is the metal part on top of a pencil.
Even thinking about these things make my lower teeth ache.

One really odd thing I noticed though, that whenever I rolled money, or accidentally bit the top of a pencil, within a few days I'd develope flu-like symptoms. I rarely ever get sick, but even as a child I secretly blamed it on the metal.

Glad to know you're all out there!
Jan 12, 2012
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starstarstarstarstar 		Cures
by: Anonymous

Part II

You could also arrive in this condition if doctors have prescribed too many antibiotics. the antibiotics will kill off all flora in your gut--good and bad. It creates an opportunity for bad bacteria to establish itself in your gut. Helicobacter pylori is a particularly nasty one that is wide spread. The good bacteria usually can keep it at bay (they say about half of us have it in our system) Unchecked --it will burrow into the mucus lining of the stomach and small intestine and destroy tissue that is responsible for intrinsic factor. The body cannot repair the damage and you will have problems absorbing enough b vitamins and minerals to stay healthy. Further, the same tissue is also responsible for the production of acid. Reduction in acid will allow your system to be overrun with yeast. The mucus lining also protects your stomach from being harmed by the acid--peptic ulcers. Infection by H. pylori can result in ulcers, severe--even fatal yeast infection (mycelial stage), stomach and colon cancer and will result in autoimmune conditions. the automimmune conditions happen because the damage to the lining allows proteins and sugars to be introduced directly into the bloodstream triggering the autoimmune system to produce antibodies which will attack the organs it sees as responsible (mistakenly). High sugar levels in the blood lead to the production of antibodies that attack the pancreas. When the pancreas is damaged enough --the result is diabetes. That you will be chemically sensitive in this case is the least of your worries.

As you age you become more susceptible to infection. Around the age of 50 you loose the ability to produce certain probiotics that until then have helped protect your gut which is why at that age you start becoming susceptible to all sorts of ailments. It is important to take a good probiotic--yogurt is generally not enough. You need a time release that contains bifidus (what you can't produce past around 50. We also don't tend to have enough fiber in our diets and it is recommended to consume several tablespoons of ground flax and a spoonful of flax oil(which is very good for the gut--is thought to fight cancer). Ground flax from Bob's Red Mill--keep refrigerated and it freezes well--we purchase 25# bags.

NAC is often used to help clear up heavy metal poisoning and numerous antioxidants may be helpful to help detox tissues--such as Vitamin E especially Gamma E, Green Tea, Tumeric, and some others. This would help reduce your body burden. You might feel worse for a few days as toxins freed up by any sort of detox will cause you some discomfort as they are eliminated.
Jan 10, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		metal... ugh
by: vbg

wow... my friends! :) LOL, I though I was the only one with this problem, I mostly cannot stand touching certain forks or spoons... it drives me nuts, i feel a weird just thinking about it.
Jan 10, 2012
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starstarstarstarstar 		Cures
by: Anonymous

PART 1

Chemical (including metal) sensitivity is more a symptom. There can be numerous conditions that can lead to this. (I posted before that there is most often a physiological problem leading to the behavioral problem and some info about heavy metal poisoning.) I can say some things in general:

The liver helps remove toxins, harmful bacteria, and other strange substances from the body. For example, if you ingest bacterial contamination the gall bladder will excrete bile into the intestines to help eliminate it--loose bowels and possibly nausea--helping the body rid itself of contaminants--likely why contact with some metals makes some of us feel 'wozzy'. Also, if your liver is weak or damaged, you may become chemically sensitive as the body has difficulty removing the contaminant from the blood stream or reducing metals to normal levels. The best supplements to improve liver function is milk thistle (Silymarin) and Alpha-Lipoic Acid. I take 300 mg of Silymarin and 600mg ALA daily.

The Kidneys and Adrenal glands are involved in the regulation of certain minerals along with hormones. Phosphates, Calcium, Magnesium are the main minerals that must be in balance as an overabundance of one will result in deficiencies of the others. Too much calcium relative to magnesium will lead to stones, muscle cramps and twitches, and possibly sensitivity to metals and chemicals. The body tries to maintain metals such as Zinc, Copper, Chromium, and a few other minor ones as part of that balance. Yes--the body needs some copper but too much of anything good in small quantities can be toxic in larger ones. We are all individuals and some of us are likely to be genetically disposed to have certain abnomalies in the regulation of such things. (Some people wear copper braclets in order to absorb some copper into their system to improve their health. Good vitamins will include trace amounts).

As before in earlier posts--heavy metal poisoning or bacterial contamination can cause all sorts of problems. The liver has a certain capacity which is reduced if the liver is damaged from excessive levels, including alcohol. If you have a high body burden due to weak liver, bacterial contamination, drinking alcohol or eating excess sugar and fars--again it will not be able to remove contaminates and you might become sensitive to metals among other things. If the body cannot eliminate toxins via the organs (the normal way) it will try to leach them out thru the skin causing all sorts of skin reactions. Vitamin deficiencies can also play a role. The B and D vitamins for instance are factors. Sugar is actually somewhat a toxin that is regulated in the blood by the pancreas--if it fails to do so you have diabetes which will lead to sensitivities and a host of other problems. Sugar is also removed by the liver. During the holidays we tend to take in a lot more sugar and flu season follows soon after (as the sugar has compromised the immune system).
Jan 09, 2012
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starstarstarstarstar 		So Glad To Have Found This!
by: Anonymous

I'm 51 and have always been extremely sensitive to smells. I too, absorb many different things through my skin, metal included, and can taste it within a few minutes. I have the same problem with anything I put on my skin, including lotions, oils, face creams, etc. I can't wear perfumes, and have trouble when others around me wear it. I can taste it, and I also get a weird smell from it, like it disagrees with my body chemistry. Does anyone know what any of us can do to stop this? Is it something to do with our body chemistry? Maybe our diet? Does anyone have any suggestions on how to make it stop?
Jan 09, 2012
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starstarstarstarstar 		glad i'm not the only one.
by: Anonymous

Is there a cure?
Jan 09, 2012
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starstarstarstarstar 		woo im not the only one :-)
by: Anonymous

I'm a 17 year old girl who has had this problem since I can remember. I actually feel sick in the stomach when I have coins in my hand.... I try to get over it and not be grossed out but I can't help it. Door handles don't bother me as much and neither does cutlery.... when I see someone put a coin in their mouth or a necklace I feel like throwing up, and same with my boyfriend who puts keys in his mouth :/ and his keys stink! When he comes over and kisses me hello he puts his hand on my neck and I push it away because his been holding his keys and it makes his hand smell like them :/ or when somebody wants me to hold their keys for them I only use one finger or I hold all of them in my hand and try to get over it but I can't. I thought I was the only one with this problem! Now I don't feel stupid lol. Does anyone know if there's a cure?
Jan 04, 2012
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starstarstarstarstar 		I am so happy I found this!!
by: Anonymous

I have had a phobia of touching or holding metal in particular coins since I was a child. I am now 26 years of age and nothing has changed. People ask is it because it's dirty. NO! My only explanation is I hate the feel of it! It makes me physically sick to see a coin sitting on the table or chair beside me in particular the copper ones, if im eating and a small metally thing is beside me I gag! I never wear jewellery and if I am ever to get married I will in no way wear a ring! To this day, I still can't properly describe what this is other than the feel and the sight of coins, etc makes me sick!! HELP!! :)
Dec 16, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		Nickel and Heavy Metal Poisoning
by: Anonymous

To supplement my recent post--I would also look into Heavy Metal Poisoning. Nickel can provoke an allergic reaction including from handling coins. Mercury poisoning or poisoning from several other heavy metals could also underly a behaviorial reaction.

For example From: http://tuberose.com/Heavy_Metal_Toxicity.html

"By handling coins and touching other metals containing nickel. The most common adverse health effect of nickel in humans is an allergic reaction."
Dec 16, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		physiological v. behavorial
by: Anonymous

My aversion while young was not quite as severe but i have always had reactions to touching metal. I didn't develop behavioral aversions but suffered various complications--generally it made me feel bad in ways hard to describe--slightly nauseous, sometimes a feeling of vertigo, itchy in areas of contact, taste of metal, etc... I never wore jewelry until graduating from high school. I could not wear my grad ring more than a couple of days. I would start feeling sickish and by a couple days would have skin peeling off underneath and between fingers. i can't wear gold or silver jewelry to this day. Handling coins often can make me feel sick in general and makes my hands feel weird and dirty. Handling aluminum often causes lightheadedness, a severe metallic taste in the mouth that makes my teeth feel weird.

Metals are absorbed through the skin and oversensitivity to metal content can have all sorts of physical reasons. We have metal balances within us that can be out of whack and exacerbate this. I don't have a problem with stainless steel and can wear stainless steel jewelry just fine.

The point is that there can be physiological reasons underlying what is often seen as a behavioral problem. I can state that the reactions of others to your 'behavior' can be the worse torture of such a condition.

There are many possible causes of seeming allergies to metals but magnesium deficiency and liver perhaps kidney problems stand out. Magnesium deficiency is common and i have problems absorbing it. My organs aren't so great either and more so i have regulatory problems with my adrenal glands (Addisons) that affect the balances of minerals (including metals) in my system.

If i had a child who had a problem with touching coins i would experiment with stainless steel to see if it is behavioral or physiological. My understanding is that stainless steel will not be absorbed into the skin and few experience any sort of allergic reaction to it. If the child has no problems handling some stainless steel coins (have some made up at a metal shop) or stainless utensils i would expect the child is reacting to a real unpleasant sensation or experience from handling coins --silver, copper, perhaps nickel. I don't feel a shock from it but still can feel sickish from handling a bunch of coins.
Dec 04, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		Added :)
by: Anonymous

See you guys over there. How come you didn't make it a group or a page? Then you wouldn't have to friend all these "strangers" :) haha
Dec 03, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		fb
by: Anonymous

Well, "Forum" why didn't I think of that? Darn! That is very clever :) lol
Dec 03, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		fb page
by: Anonymous

should it have been titled "nometal forum"?
Dec 03, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		facebook paids for metal phobia - the few, the proud, the plastic cutlery people!
by: Anonymous

I'm in - lets try and get more supporters!
Dec 02, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		Lithium Orotate?
by: Anonymous

Lithium is a metal. Interesting that someone takes it to combat a phobia. Fight fire with fire.
Nov 30, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		fb is set up
by: MJ

Okay I set up a Facebook. Friend me at Nometal Forme
I hope to have time to add resources often and good links
but it also takes you guys to log on and share. :) see you on fb.
Nov 30, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		facebook paids for metal phobia - the few, the proud, the plastic cutlery people!
by: Anonymous

If you set up a page, let me know. I am not proud - but god i would love to discuss it and coping methods! I have considered hypnotism - has anyone tried it? Over 30 years if this is really tough.
Nov 30, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		I'm in for Facebook.
by: Anonymous

Should we just be loud and proud about it? "The few...the proud...METALLOPHOBICS." Or try and make it somewhat discreet?

I'm happy to start one if we have more people.
Nov 29, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		facebook page for metal aversion sufferers?
by: Anonymous

I'd love to get on a Facebook page to discuss this. My metal aversion has a severe impact on my life and i would really like to understand it better through other peoples experiences. Who's in for a Facebook support group??
Nov 29, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		Me too.
by: Anonymous

Wow, so nice to see that I'm not the only one (although I'm not glad you all have to deal with this). I'm a 40 year old female. The only other place I've seen something related online is here

http://www.unusualphobias.com/jewelry.html

I found the person's comment about angel hair pasta very interesting--it bothers me somewhat but I never connected it to the metal thing.

When metal touches my teeth, I get that feeling that must be the feeling that some people get with nails on a chalkboard. I don't think that's part of the phobia, just a sensitivity issue.

I get part of my mouth numbed when I get regular dental cleanings done. However, metal touching my lips and tongue *is* part of it. I've had this aversion as long as I remember, no trauma that I know of, and it's not "forever" since there's a smiling photo of me at 2 years old smiling with my parents' key ring in my mouth!

Jewelry is the worst, and I eat mostly with plastic utensils at home. Sometimes I eat with metal just to try and decondition myself, but it's always a relief to get back to plastic. I've developed this way to eat where the fork/spoon doesn't touch my tongue. People don't notice it unless I point it out, and then they think it's pretty weird looking.

It's small metal that I don't like. Big things like airplanes, faucets and subway poles I'm OK with. I don't like dealing with coins, especially dimes.

Whenever I can I use tools made from companies like OXO with the rubber grip, and I get scissors with plastic handles, etc. I don't like metal pens either, and I can't stand those metal chains that are sometimes attached to the pen at certain businesses. Yuck!

Clinking silverware together (or scraping the knife inside the fork tines) used to bother me a lot more than it does now.

Mine doesn't involve taste or smell.

If someone I know or someone on TV (etc) is wearing jewelry and I notice it. It's very hard for me to be attracted to people wearing any.

I've rigged up my keys with those colored things on the fat ends, and I've got a leather shoelace threaded through the holes: no jangling!

I also don't like the words--chain, ring, necklace, etc etc. Thanks for letting me talk about this--it's pretty weird to my friends Although I know three people with similar things--one with wood, one with wool, and one with ceramic tile. Soooo..they're not allowed to think I'm *that* weird.

I think we should start a Facebook page!!
Nov 27, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Serious metal aversion
by: Mel

I am 38 yrs old and have suffered from debilitating metal version (esp cutlery) since i was about 5 years old. I have often felt alone in the phobia. Its helps to read these posts.

I don't think there is a cure for me.
Nov 12, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		i really need to know what this is? :-(
by: Anonymous

every time a metal spoon touches someone's teeth i can actually get all jittery and i feel like a current passing thru my body and its not even funny. The this is that i think i've always had this prob but now has become extreme! Its causing me a lotta problems! Everybody makes fun of out loud! And think like there's something seriously wrong. I need to kno wat this is. It is bothering me a lot these days. :-( plz help me. Its killin my self confidence.
Nov 10, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		my son hates metal
by: Anonymous

Our son is four and a half.
We have recently seen a behavior expert and they say at this stage we should just ignore it. Easier said than done.
They insist on not making an issue of it as the child knows they will get a reaction from doing it.
We have tried but it is very frustrating when it is done.
Reward charts are a no no as again you are making a big deal of it.

We had a day a few weeks ago when i couldn't bear it anymore. This again i had to try and avoid him seeing as he will pick up on it.
A few days later i had a one to one with him and asked why? Very difficult for a four year old to be able to explain this in the first place.
I then asked how it made him feel and explained that sometimes it makes me feel like that to try and empathize. I also said that it's silly and can affect simple things we do and can often get in the way of us having fun and how silly it was.
Also the fact, which is my main issue, that he can pick up all sorts of bugs in public or have an accident as he simply doesn't want to hold the handrail.

I asked him to try harder to forget about it.
The results have been remarkable. Not there yet as he often has a problem with my partners bracelet. More often than not though these events are exaggerated when he is tired.
When he is busy or otherwise occupied it is forgotten about.

Again the expert advice is to not make a big deal of it but as i said, it's easier said than done.
Nov 04, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Touching Tin Foil
by: Anonymous

I've got it too. It was strong when I was young. I could taste nickles when I touched them. It went away, but now at 35 it is back. But now I can control it a bit more. When I hold tin foil I taste it in my mouth and its overpowering. Makes my mouth pucker? It's not ADHD these children are special gifts from the universe. Their sensitivity will manifest as psychism and healing when they get older. Try lithium orotate occasionally to help with the moodiness from the over-stimulation and sensitivity. It is available without a prescription. Just google it.
Oct 10, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Joanna
by: Anonymous

http://www.additudemag.com/

check out that site has a bunch of sensory issues articles and how they can and cannot be associated with ADHD from all my reading ADHD/Aspergers/Autism are considered by many physicians to be on a sliding scale or spectrum if that makes any sense
Oct 09, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		hi 19 year old male
by: Joanna

My sons school are asking me to take him for a diagnosis for ADHD. Thank you for posting as this is the 'behavior' link I was hoping to get an answer for.
Oct 09, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		I completely understand
by: Anonymous

I'm 19 male and I have to say I don't smell my hands well actually yes but not in public but when I touch metal things its gross and it totally disturbs me.

I don't have a problem with the smell of my key i put in the door at my house or any door handles in my house they are all stainless not that old. New door handles or usually stainless are ok.

But older metals and the smell the more pungent ones are terrible I absolutely cannot stand them I just realized this a few minutes ago this is crazy and I believe it has something to do we me having some kind of Sensory but more along the ADHD lines which I was recently diagnosed.

Thanks for bringing this up and all these comments I like to see I'm not the only one.
Oct 03, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		Cant touch meta with wet hands ...
by: Anonymous

My son is the same he always smells his hands after touching metal but he cant touch metal with wet hands why is this ???
Sep 25, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		SAME HERE
by: Anonymous

Oh god I thought I was only one..I'm 14 I use forks,spoons and knifes that are part metal/plastic, It hurts when someone is cleaning the knifes(you know..when both metals touch) I can't stand using jewelry, It feels..I don't know..when I try to used them I just want to take them off already..And in my birthdays there's always someone who give me jewelry. I don´t know what to name it..But I don´t know sometimes I think I smell it but most of the time I don`t..Sorry if I can´t explain myself..
Sep 12, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		Galvanic Reaction
by: Hrtofluv

I think I have found the reason. Google it - journal of dental research has actually gone some research about it. I think those that have the metal aversion - might possibly higher metal concentrations in their blood.
Just a thought! Wish everyone the best!
Aug 23, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		teeth irratation?
by: Anonymous

the reason i took time to look for a site like this is because any time certain metal scrapes other metal it irritates my teeth.ive been trying to look for the reason y
Aug 22, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		hi Anonymous
by: Joanna

my son also smells his hands and fingers continually after touching metal, the sip on his jacket etc.. he has only unconsciously approved wearing-one recently for years he protested anything with a zip even before he could talk, (I never understood what the problem was) he asks me to remove my jewelry before giving him a cuddle. He has shared with me that he has alot of problems at school as there is metal everywhere though he has just recently started touching/using the water bubbler. We are starting our second round of pediatricians Drs and developmental therapist next week as he is having major issues at school with learning and behavior. Im not sure if anyone else who has a child with this quirk also has behavioral problems and I ask if it goes hand in hand??
Aug 22, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		Hello Tricky
by: Anonymous

am so happy you find my posts. I hope knowing you and your son are not alone helps a little.

First off, do not let him hide it but do take your time and give him space to sort out his feelings when you let him know that you are aware of it... My son will try to hide after he touches something he will turn his head and smell his hands and we will ask him what it smells like or I will offer to wash with him. At first he denied it but I took it slow and did not push the matter. I just try to support him and not make a big deal of it. I do not want him to think he is strange but AI also do not promote it. So now he will tell me yes or no when he smells his hands or he asks me sometimes before he grabs a door knob or metal object if it smells. I just feel it he has someone who knows and doesn't try to change him he feels better about it and he gets braver to try to touch things and get through it, he does not freak out about it as much he gets through it. Last week he grabbed something out of my car and then discovered it was stored in a compartment with loose change so he got very uncomfortable but he calmed down very quickly and when we got out of the car he went and washed his hands. A few years ago he would have really been upset if that happened, so we are making progress. I do not think this is something that ever goes away and I except that I just try to let him know I am hear for him and I know his secret and I will be here to help and make him feel that he should not be ashamed. Team spots help build his self esteem and he does not seem to be as sensitive when he is feeling proud and confident in himself, for some reason. I think a little anxiety is associated with how sensitive he is to touching certain things. This weekend he was sliding down the poles in the pool, with no problem, I was surprised but I did not say anything to remind him that it was metal, he was playing and happy. He also learned to hold coins by the edge with 2 fingers and he has convinced himself that the edges do not bother him so much as the flat surface of the coins? I think it all comes down to being his allies and giving him coping tools to make it easier.

Good luck to you and your children, MJ
Aug 21, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		teeth sensitivity
by: Anonymous

I have this problem as well but have always thought it might have something to do with the filling in my teeth. No one ever understands when I say metal makes my "teeth hurt". Going to the dentist is painful because I can't stand the metal touching my teeth! I wish I knew what it was or if it has anything to do with the mercury in fillings... I have noticed the fillings that are of porcelain do not bother me.
Aug 12, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		son hates metal
by: joanne Buckley

my son has behavior problems and hates metal.. im wondering if there is a connection he is 7 and has hated metal for years/// i cant find info on it.
Aug 11, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		my son hates metal
by: Tricky

Further to your article Melissa, i could have written it myself!
Our four year old son has the same behaviour.
What steps are you taking so far as i could sure use some advice?
If we pull him up on it he starts to try and hide it which is only going to make natters worse for us.
(London)
Aug 10, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Grrrrrrrr.....
by: Anonymous

i too have this terrible terrible sort of an allergy to the sound of 2 metals clashing or scraping against each other!

even the thought of it gives me creeps! i actually felt the creeps right now, even while writing about them and imagining...

if someone is playing with a fork and a spoon and scraping them against the other, i cud die with the noise... i too have the same issue with cooking or washing vessels as someone posted... i don't wash them all at once...

im therefore planning to get heat resistant rubber/plastic spatulas for cooking...
Aug 02, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Wow
by: Anonymous

OMG So I had to take my necklace off because the brassy smell and decided to google this since I have realize that every time I smell copper like metal,gives me the chills. I thought it was just me, glad Im not the only one. Its mostly old rusted metal that does this the most. Money and keys also give me that feeling but not as much as the rusty or fake jewelry.
Aug 01, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		The sound hurts!!!
by: Anonymous

I have a metal refrigerator and I cant Listen to someone rub their hand on it, the sound makes me cringe and I can't even touch the fridge on my on because the feel. I am also allergic to cast iron it leaves irrational bumps which I don't know if it has anything to do with it. I have suffered with this metal sensitivity for about the last 2 years I'm only 15 and I really wish I knew how long will this last and what is it but I'm really happy I'm not the only person with this
Jul 17, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		Sends vibrations through my teeth that are immobilizing
by: Anonymous

I have had the scraping metal sensitivity at lease from my college years until now (30 y/o F). I hate putting away dishes and when I wash, I wash utensils one by one to prevent the sensation. It's only certain types of metals. I literally am immobilized for a few seconds when it occurs. I am healthy as well. Some digging has led me in the direction of some sort of frequency sensitivity or oscillation issue. I cook with metals. I find myself being overly careful not to rub the metal together. I have noticed it becoming more of a problem as the years go by. I'm glad I found this site and hope people continue to share and help dig into reasons this happens.
Jul 08, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		The cure for me
by: Callan

Hey, what you've said your son is experiencing is identical to what i've had all my life. I've always hated the smell and feel of Brassy/Coppery metals like money.

When i went up to high school (about 11/12) i realised i couldnt go through life avoiding touching and smelling metal and as i've matured i've learnt to deal with it more and more. For example, I used to only use plastic knives/forks, now i can use stainless steel.

I am 19 years old now, and even though i dont let my girlfriend wear jewellery around me (hehe) i've come a long way. So basically, as your son grows up he will mature and overcome these problems in his own way. Maybe never completely but aslong as he is comfortable enough for himself it shouldnt be something for you to worry about. :)

PS.
The biggest breakthrough i had was learning to play Guitar. It helped me overcome touching metal dramatically because its enjoyable and rewarding and providing the strings are brand new they dont leave a strong smell. (even though i still occasionally wash my hands after playing nowadays)
Jun 13, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		Metal Sensitivity
by: Anne

I am so glad I found this website! I too thought I was alone and that people just thought I was crazy and being over dramatic. About 3 years ago (when I was 28) I started to notice that I was becoming extremely sensitive to metallic noises. The sounds of scraping from forks and knives cutting food and , metal bowls clanking with each other, and TIN FOIL DRIVES ME NUTS!!!! I get goosebumps and try and block my ears. So, now I use plastic spoons,forks,cups,& paper plates. Now that I know there are other people who can relate to my issue, I'm going inform my doctor about this and possibly show her this website (if she too thinks I'm crazy and being overdramatic!) Thank you for creating this site and too all of you for sharing your stories!
May 24, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		Me too - glad to have company in this
by: Anonymous

I read through the chain and don't see where anybody actually said what this condition is. Does anybody know? I too have lived with it all my life. The sound of metal scraping metal makes me shiver and shake and releases a metallic taste in my mouth. I found a post a few years ago something that sounded like haptosia but can't recall or find it again.

I'm almost 50 now and I'm afraid it might be getting worse, I'm becoming more intolerant of people biting their fork. It seems like more and more pitches are setting me off, where it used to be just a few. Does anybody know what this is. I too am sorry for you all, but very glad to finally have company in this bizarre thing.
May 21, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		Processed food tasting like metal
by: Anonymous

Has anyone ever had a situation where certain foods taste like metal? I don't eat much processed food, some of it tastes like metal to me. I remember telling my mother that hot dogs taste like metal, certain ones still do.
May 21, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		doing some research online...
by: Melissa J

Thank you for viewing my post! I hope it helps all of you just to know you are not alone.

My son is doing very well. He even counts money at school, his teacher taught him to use a pencil eraser to point and move the coins as he counts. He has decided he wants to wear only long sleeved t-shirts so he can turn door knobs with out touching them. Summer heat is already started so he is using the front of his shirt when he has to.

I have been looking into some web sites about testing your bodies metal content, some people absorb and keep metals from immunizations and minerals and other things we ingest with aluminum, copper ect... Our bodies should shed these metals but some do not. There is help if this is your cause for sensitivity. Some web sites I viewed suggested getting your blood tested for metal levels. I have not had time lately to research any further, hopefully can get time to do it soon. Post if any of you find any information.
Thank you!
May 20, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		Metal taste began with science experiments
by: Anonymous

I never noticed any abnormal metallic taste in my mouth until I started doing mineralogical experiments where I vaporize or electrolyze different metals into a rock matrix.

Lately, I've noticed whenever I even touch metal like aluminum foil with my hands I immediately get a metallic taste in my mouth.

This effect seems to be related to exposure to metal ions.

great...
May 13, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Im not the only freak
by: Amy

like all of you, i never heard of anyone else with this problem before i found this page. I have to eat with plastic, on plastic. I grab handfuls of plastic to-go utensils when I'm out and can't stand eating in large groups because all i can hear is the clanging of metal together and worse on peoples teeth. i have to teach people how to eat around me. getting out a pot to make dinner is often a long process cause i have to do it slow so there are no noises or possible scraping. When I'm around the problem, i can barely open my eyes and lick my front teeth over and over.Its all been getting worse over time. amy mcdonald hb ca
May 09, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Wow!
by: JenH

I just stumbled onto this site researching what type of flatware to buy for sensitive teeth. I seriously thought I was the only one who had this problem. I can't use certain flatware because it bothers my teeth so much. I can't touch metal either, and if I do I have to wash my hands. The same with keys, doorknobs, and railings. Usually when I go to someone's house, I always wash my hands when I get there. I hate touching money, both paper and coins, because of the smell and feel. It makes my skin crawl. Other than these things, I'm fine. I don't consider myself anal, or obsessive compulsive except with these things. My friends and family always tease me about it, but I'm really just glad to know I'm not alone.
May 05, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Metal.. GROSS!!
by: JLeeL

I am a 25 yr mother of 4 boys and 1 step-daughter. I too have this same problem.. I will not eat with metal forks, spoons or knifes. I prefer plastic plates, bowls, utensils and cups. I also refuse to cook with all metal cook wear.. or be in the room with some one who is. I also hate coins. the smell and the sound are just unbearable. My brother which lives with us and my step-daughter both scrape their teeth with their utensils while eating and it almost kills me. I have been this way for as long as I can remember. All of my family, friends and in-laws keep plastic-wear at their house for when I am there to eat. There has to be a reason for this.. and I would LOVE to know why or what causes this! I have asked doctors and dentist but no one has an answer. Metal makes my skin-crawl, my teeth hurt(yes-HURT) and it just make me want to burst at the seems! If anyone has found a Medical reason for this please please let me know.
Jessie_littleton@yahoo.com Thank you
Apr 30, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Metal Makes Me Cringe
by: Anonymous

I have this weird thing for metal also. It happened recently when i ate cereal. I took a bite and i felt the metal from the spoon shoot through me in a cringy way. i cant even handle the touch or rubbing together of metal it feels as though my eardrums are going to bleed or explode. Lately im staying away from all metals.
Apr 19, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		I don't dislike metal, but it is painful to touch
by: Anonymous

I used to sell scrap metal. I have never had any problem with it before, however lately touching metal of any type has caused an uncomfortable stinging sensation, which has led to an aversion to any activity which involves touching it.
Feb 10, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Me too!
by: 29 year old

My metal "phobia" is definitely the most quirky thing about me. I don't show any other forms of OCD, but when it comes to metal I have a mental block.

I have a big problem with metal handles, coins, and keys basically. I try to make myself get over it- like I took a job over the summer at a retail store, and made myself count the coins just like everyone else. I just ran to the bathroom and washed my hands afterwards. I CANNOT hold coins in my hands. If I'm at a drive through restaurant and count out coins to pay, I will place a dollar bill on my hand and put the coins on top of it, so it doesn't get mixed with my sweaty palms. Anything metal that is not regularly cleaned is what gets me.
Metal cutlery is typically fine, as long as it isn't an ornate piece that has the little black in between the designs. Pots and pans that are washed are fine too. I, too, taste the metal if the smell is on my hands and I am VERY aware of it.

One thing that I can suggest to the parents and to anyone else with this problem- is to make compromises. Touch coins- but then make sure you can wash your hands right afterwards. If plastic cutlery makes you more comfortable? By all means, use it! By you can't really avoid touching coins or doorknobs in the real world. The person who suggested the plastic covers on the ends of keys- that's also what I use. You can buy cute little ones at Walmart.

I recently got engaged, and boy was that an issue. It's "neat" to my fiance that the ring he gave me is the first ring I've ever worn. I clean it almost every day, and since it's a white gold(over 14 kt), it doesn't tarnish. White metals typically make me more comfortable than darker metals.

You CAN work around this! Good luck :)
Feb 06, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Glad I'm not alone
by: Anonymous

I'm also so glad to have found this page. I'm a 20 year old student and for most of my life I have been physically repulsed by coins, keys, watches and jewelery. Even the words 'key' and 'coin' make me shudder a little bit. I've never had an issue with the sound of scraping metal and I don't have too big a problem using steel cutlery though. My earliest memory of any awareness of metal was when I was just a kid and I remember smelling my mum's keys and thinking that the metal smelled like blood. Maybe this is where it stems from? But it makes life seriously difficult. Has anyone seen a doctor or anything about it?
Jan 18, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Metal mouth
by: Anonymous

Just reading these posts make me taste metal
in my mouth and my fingertips feel as though I'm touching metal right now. Good to know, though, that it's not just ME.

I, too, use only plastic utensils and prefer to drink only out of plastic glasses. Yea! I'm not alone!
Jan 14, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		hypersensitive to metal scraping together
by: Anonymous

I am amazed to see that others have a problem like mine. I have always been hypersensitive to metal scraping together. Forks, knives, spoons, horrible to have a fork scrape my teeth or for someone else to scrape their teeth across a fork. Sharpening knives or swords hitting together in a movie sends a chill up my spine. My father used to rub a couple of coins together between his fore finger and thumb, it sent me climbing the wall.

I also have mild tourettes.

I've never met anyone else who has the same issue!
Dec 22, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		My Problem is More with Metal Touching Metal
by: Anonymous

I am a female in her 50s and have had a similar problem as long as I can remember.

I can eat with metal utensils, but I can't stand even the thought of touching a fork to one of my fillings in my teeth. I can't be in the same room is someone is cooking in a metal pot, stirring with a metal utensil.

In a nutshell, I can't stand metal touching metal. I do think I taste it slightly if I think of it as well.

It is a feeling similar to finger nails on a chalkboard, and sends chills down my spine.

I too have been teased over the years by friends and family.
Nov 27, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		No idea why
by: JJax

I'm reading these posts while I eat dinner with a plastic fork. I've ALWAYS had a sensitivity to metal: rakes scraping the sidewalk, forks in the sink, people scraping their teeth when they eat...dear God make them stop! I can feel it to my core, like some is drilling into my teeth from my ears. The worst lately has been when wedding ring scrapes the sink. I hate that some of my family think it's funny and will deliberately scrape forks and such against their teeth when they're mad at me. I'm 26 and have no idea when all this started, but it seems like I've been this way forever.
Nov 05, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		tasting metal? smelling sounds?
by: Anonymous

For the people who can taste metal when they touch it, try looking up synesthesia and see if anything sounds familiar, didnt read through all the posts to see if anyone has already suggested this, but if they haven't, hope it helps.
Oct 13, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Relieved
by: Don

I am so relieved to find this page! I figured other people felt the same way about metal as me.

I am 23 years old and haven't eaten with metal utensils in at least 7 or 8 years. I've been away from home since I was 19 and don't even own metal utensils. The idea of metal in my mouth could ruin even the best meal. Before I "quit" metal I remember if the utensil touched my teeth it would gag me. My dad has told me that when I was little I hated metal, but grew out of it. (Guess I grew back into it). Haha

The smell of certain railings really freak me out. I have to wash my hands or shower. I don't really have a problem with coins, as long as they are nowhere near my mouth. I don't really worry about germs, and am a proponent of the 3 second rule. :)

Going to the dentist is out of the question, even though I have insurance, and a number of painful cavities.

I usually order things that don't require utensils if I go out to eat somewhere that has silverware. If that isn't an option I have found that many restaurants in my area have plastic "to go" utensils.

I also find that the cold aggravates the condition.

Thanks to everyone who has posted. It makes me feel better to know there are others out there.
Sep 19, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		metal taste in mouth
by: Anonymous

Same thing with me, I touch something metal, whether it's a spoon, penny, whatever,i can taste the metal on my tongue. When I hear certain sounds it hurts me as well, like metal scraping on something or chalk on a chalkboard...strange, i was wondering what causes this.
Sep 17, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		I can't stand to touch metal!
by: Anonymous

My Parents never believed my claims that touching metal was simply painful for me, until they saw this site. Ever since I was a young kid I remember throwing tantrums about my dad scraping his cutlery on the plate, shrieking 'it hurts!'.
As I grew older things got worse. I can't touch any metal without goosebumps raising all over my body (except jewelery for some reason. Silver and gold seem to be the exception.) and something akin to an electric shock running through my body. Additionally the smell of metal makes me feel extremely nauseous.

The worst thing for me though, is having to put metal into my mouth, e.g. cutlery.
I find, however, that all this is amplified when I am feeling cold. This makes winter a difficult time of year for me, as I seem to be particularly sensitive to these effects.
Sep 05, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Experience pain ever?
by: Malloy

I have the same problem, plastic, porcelain, glass and smooth metals makes me nauseous to touch, and metal sometimes sends a sharp pain deep and radiates through my bones. If my hands are pruney for any reason, wet or sweaty, I refuse to touch any of the aforementioned. My question then, I suppose, is do any of you experience the sharp pains?
Jul 15, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		I have the same thing...not as extreme
by: Anonymous

I have this condition where I hate metal...but it's only certain metals..Like Gold jewelry (that one is the Worst) Rings,Earrings, necklaces, watches, you name it I cant stand to touch it..I can't date a girl who wears a lot of jewelry because of it. Whats worse is watching someone put gold jewelry in their mouth, I immediately get sick to my stomach and want to Throw up! I am 36 and have been this way as long as I can remember...change too..but not quarters, dimes or nickels..just the Pennies...they Feel "Dirty" to me and I must wash hands after handling change...if I don't and then later put my fingers in my mouth and I remember I handled change I have to go brush and gargle if I don't throw up first.
Jul 09, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		I hate metal too!
by: Anonymous

I can't stand metal!!!! I turn 29 this month and have been this way for as long as I can remember!!! I eat with plastic utensils and cook with only plastic spoons. I HATE touching silverware and freak if I hear it clank together or eeekk - the dreaded silverware scraping through someone's teeth - Shriek!!! It's like I can feel and taste it through my entire body!! It gives me goosebumps and makes me shiver down to the core!! Everyone thinks I'm crazy or that it's funny to mess with me but it truly is unbearable. I often wonder if I have some sort of chemical imbalance or something. I can't figure out what makes me this way...
Jun 09, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		i taste metal by touch
by: Anonymous

I too can taste metal by touching it with my hands. handrails, and things with iron seem to taste the strongest. also coins do this. I thought i was unique, but it sounds like many others are like me.
Mar 18, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		metal phobia ??
by: Anonymous

I can see from the posts that some people are maybe confusing a phobia with a real problem like tasting feeling the metal through the skin.
A Phobia is an emotional response like scared of dogs per say.

But tasting feeling metal is not a Phobia it is a reality like allergic to bees or an allergy to something it is a real problem.

Just something to think on and may clarify things about what is exactly the problem emotional or real.
Mar 18, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		same here
by: Anonymous

I have had the same problem all my life it was real bad when I was very young I could not stand touching or drinking out of anything metal even most ceramics only glass or plastic could I drink out of. When I was a teenager they had a new pool at my high school that had aluminum poles in the pool for water polo and I could taste and get a tingly feeling when I was as close as 8 feet from the aluminum poles it was strange.

When I worked at a restaurant I used to get free beer after work in stainless steel mixing cups and I had to pour it into a glass or plastic cup to drink it? or it tasted like metal and I could not drink it.

I never told anyone for fear of being called strange even now at 54 if I tell someone they think I?m out of my head and don?t believe me but it is not as bad now at 54.
I?m not alone anymore
Jan 26, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		My Update
by: Melissa J

I am so happy to see that I have so many comments on my post. I had no idea that so many people are experiencing the same difficulties. My son is now 6 years old and still has issues with smelly metal. He went through a short time last year when he would not touch other people, shake hands high five or hold hands but that went away, thank God. He has really come a long way and still smells to check his hands every now and again but we feel he is making progress. A huge part of his progress is my husband and I building his self esteem. We have noticed his behaviors get worse when he is stressed by busy schedules and our parenting. When we are tired, we have shorter tempers and don't spend quality time with him. We have really tried to give him the coping tools he needs by positive reinforcement and it is working. Good luck to you all and be grateful for the great things in your life, we try everyday to not sweat the small stuff!
Jan 26, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Thank you thank you thank you!
by: Elise

I'm so happy to read this article and the comments posted. My son who is nearly four also hates metal, particularly buttons on his coat and jeans. It must run in the family as my sister is the same. It is a real comfort to me to know that we're not alone and that others out there have the same issue. It has got to the stage where, if his coat is hanging in the hallway, I'm not allowed to walk past with his drink as it will in some way be 'infected' by the metal buttons! Thank you to this website and everyone who has posted on here.
Jan 05, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Ok ---so I am not crazy!!
by: Anonymous

I too have this "thing" when I touch metal. I can taste it, smell it. Just thinking about makes me taste it as well. When touching coins,I can taste them as well. Have to wash my hands right away. Hand rails are another problem along with door handles.

So does anyone know why this happens???
Oct 01, 2009
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		I know how he feels
by: David

I'm a 27yo male and i had similar problem when i was younger and still do to this day although i have managed to overcome a lot of it now. When i was younger i had to use plastic or wooden handled cutlery and hated, absolutely hated touching coins, especially the smaller 5c and 10c counts. Generally my phobia was limited to smaller pieces of metal such as coins, keys, jewelery ect. I seemed to be fine with larger pieces of metal such as hand rails, pots and pans ect. Like i said, it has improved over the years however it still is there i don't think will ever go away
Aug 28, 2009
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Not always a phobia
by: Anonymous

I'm a 33 yr old male and have similar issues. They just developed a few years ago and it seems to only be certain metals and under certain circumstances. I work on a ship, which is essentially a large, floating metal box, and I have been assuming that that has something to do with it.

For me, I get a full-body tingling, almost electrical when I have a certain type of contact with metal. In particular and unfortunately, it is when I rub on metal. Not just casually brushing against it, but for instance, washing pots/pans. My wife thinks I'm just trying to avoid doing dishes, but I get an intense physical sensation that is in no way pleasant from these interactions with the metal.

Its not a phobia for me, so I'm not sure a psychological approach is always the way to deal with this when your children have these aversions.
Aug 17, 2009
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		found an article
by: Anonymous

There is an article at www.bioedonline.org/news/news.cfm?art=2879.

The story tells of a German researcher who's found that the metallic smell is not the metal but in chemical compounds within our bodies reacting to the metal when we touch it.

We are are a little different, so maybe some of us just have more of those particular compounds. This would explain why some people are bothered only by certain metals, too.
Jul 29, 2009
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Me too!
by: Anonymous

I'm 31 and still can't bear the smell of or touching metal - it's almost as if I can feel the smell. I know that sounds crazy but I can taste it, my throat constricts, my ears might ring if its strong enough, sometimes hard to breathe. I can't bear it on my hands - and it seems nothing gets it off! Orange Goop soap seems to get rid of the smell, but now I hate that smell too since I associate it with metal - HA! I just wear gloves a lot now!
Jul 08, 2009
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Blaaaa
by: Anonymous

Yeah... I got this problem too. It really sucks. Trying to find ways to get rid of it.
May 29, 2009
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Sensitive to smells
by: Anonymous

My 10yo son hates buttons on jeans and coins because they smell. He seems to have a heightened sense of smell overall and can even identify spices in a recipe. This just seems to be a small part of his SPD.
May 27, 2009
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		5ps
by: 21 yr old woman

I have a dislike of 5ps for this reason and other metal objects such as zips - particularly small metal objects. I think this is at least partly related to the smell of metal.
Mar 21, 2009
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		34 yr old Female.Thanks,
by: Finally Not WEIRD!

All my life, at least from the time I remember, I've had a problem with smelling and tasting metallic when I came in contact with metal. Even as I am thinking about metal I taste it. Doorknobs, keys, swimming pool ladders and ect...

Last summer I climbed the metal ladder to get out of the pool and my husband French kissed me and he was like oh my gosh that tasted just like metal. I let go of the ladder. We tried again. Nothing. I really would like to understand why this happens.

Also, my work just moved to a new office building. I have a beautiful office space. The only problem a naked beams right beside my desk. I've tried everything from the bottle thing with the sticks sticking out of it to stick ups. The bottle thingy works best but only the cinnamon kind.

Every now and then I smell the smell but what else can I do. People at work think I am weird. I am Printing this page to show them. Thanks again! If anyone figures this out other than washing or lotioning hands constantly that would be a great help.
Feb 20, 2009
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		finally people like me.
by: suzanne mims

I am a 26 nearly 27 yr old lady who has had a phobia/dislike of metal since I was 15. I think it started at school but not too sure why. I eat with plastic cutlery which I carry round with me everywhere I go.

I constantly get asked why and it gets a bit monotonous after a while but its been so long I tell them all the same thing.

I can tolerate certain things like earrings and the occasional necklace but if I smell the tiniest bit of metal it has to come off.

Coins are a problem and always make my hands smell of metal so I minimize touching them, I use the tips of my fingers to pick them out and automatically smell my hand after. If my hand smells they have to be washed asap!!

I have a severe fear of the dentist and have panic attacks every time I go because of the metal items used to inspect my teeth, metal in my mouth is a big problem and actually makes me gag. I cannot wear rings and touching items such as hand rails makes the smell extremely bad.

I have wised up a bit on what type of metal items smell, mostly brassy items so for those people whose kids have a metal phobia replace door handles with a novelty plastic door knob ,and with the key issue, just place a rubber attachment on the key near the rounded part. I think these would work.

So glad there are people out there, even if they are all the way across the world, that I have something in common with.
Nov 24, 2008
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		You are not alone!
by: Shell

Our son has just turned 6 years old and has a metal phobia also. It developed around the same time as your sons'(4 yrs) and started with cutlery. He would only eat with a certain plastic handled cutlery saying any other was smelly. This quickly developed in to only using plastic cutlery. From then he stopped touching money, keys, door handles, taps in fact anything metal including toys such as cars or playground equipment.

We got to the point where he would not hold our hands because we were wearing gold (metal) rings or we had touched metal objects. It was a real problem. If the bathroom door was closed he would wet himself rather than touch the handle! He would use his dressing gown to wrap around his bedroom door handle to get out his room in the morning (but then would not wear it as it was smelly).

We tried the hand washing with him but it didn't really help. We tried reward charts for touching things. We bought a coin construction game to play hoping he would join in with us but no. We got a small key operated cash box which we kept in his bedroom and placed a little treat in for him to open in the morning when he 1st woke up. We hoped that without the pressure of us around and the thought of what was in the box he might slowly become desensitized. However, being the bright child that he is he was using a tissue to hold the key!

2 years on not much has changed other than the way we all deal with it. He has placed sellotape around door handle he needs to use, he has his own cutlery that is plastic handled metal cutlery that is not smelly!!! ( the only reward chart success) he will touch taps and hold your hand without a ring! We are much more relaxed than before about it all and he plans his life without metal! He is going to give all his money to his wife to look after.

He takes it all in his stride and will make comments like 'you know I don't touch metal' as if what you have asked of him or commented on is completely stupid! We were seen by the local psychiatric service but they were not really able to help and have never come across this before.

We also have minor issues with socks and under pants at times although this was worse before the metal thing started. Good luck with your son and if you have any ideas, I would be pleased to know about them!
Aug 29, 2008
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Something to try...
by: Jessi

I've not had this particular problem, and I'm no expert, but here goes...

What if you found a smell he finds pleasant (some kind of lotion or something) and rub it on and around his nose so that when he works on touching things that bother him, he'll have a pleasing instead of icky smell in his nose. If the metal phobia started out with a problem with the smell, maybe this would help desensitize him to touching it again.

Just a thought...

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