Latex

There are three types of reactions to natural rubber latex gloves: Irritant contact dermatitis, type IV (delayed) hypersensitivity, and type I (immediate) hypersensitivity, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA). Understanding the difference between them is an important part of minimizing reactions.

The most common reaction to latex gloves is irritant contact dermatitis, which is the development of dry, itchy, irritated areas on the skin. This type of reaction—which is not an allergy— usually occurs on the hands and is caused by extended exposure to latex gloves or the powders added to them. Contact symptoms may also result from a delayed immune response to the chemicals added to latex during harvesting, processing or manufacturing. These chemicals can cause a skin rash similar to poison ivy.

Read more...

The use of natural rubber latex gloves in healthcare settings is dramatically increasing, as the threat of HIV, hepatitis B, and other infectious agents continues to rise. Reports of latex allergies among patients and workers are also increasing, according to the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) bulletin, "Potential for Allergy to Natural Rubber Latex Gloves and other Natural Rubber Products."

Allergy to latex was first recognized in the late 1970s. And since then, it’s become a major health concern as more individuals continue to be impacted. Allergic reactions can affect the skin, eyes, mouth, nose, throat, lungs and heart. Symptoms range from skin rashes, redness and itching to dizziness and abdominal pain.

Read more...