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Posts Tagged ‘Latex Gloves’

Latex refers generically to the overal dispersal (emulsion) of polymer microparticles in an liquid form. Latexes are either natural or synthetic though obviously the former was the first that was used. The Latex that is found in nature comes in the form of a milky sap which seeps out of cuts in certain plants, that thickens and sets on exposure to the air. It is a complex emulsion in which proteins, alkaloids, starches, sugars, oils, tannins, resins and gums are found. In most plants, latex is white, but some have yellow, orange, or scarlet latex.

Latex gloves are produced out of the milky sap of certain trees and plants, such as the milkweed and the rubber tree, that hardens when exposed to the air. Latex usually contains gum resins, waxes, and oils, and sometimes toxic substances. This is why when used in the medical industry, latex gloves are only used where the risk of allergic reaction is minimal.

Some people have serious latex allergies, and if exposed to latex products such as latex gloves can cause anaphylactic shock. Guayule latex is being researched as a substitute to the allergy-inducing Hevea latexes because it is a hypoallergenic. Some allergic reactions are not from the latex but from residues of other ingredients used to process the latex into clothing, gloves, foam, etc. These allergies are usually referred to as multiple chemical sensitivity.

That is why if you know that you have an allergic reaction to forms of latex often evident if you have a reaction to plasters as the glue sometimes contains latex ensure that you let the medical staff know so that they can us alternative forms of gloves eg. Nitrile or Vinyl.

The rubber tree produces a milky fluid that is commonly used to make latex. The latex is popular in health care sectors to provide protection to health workers and others regarding infectious diseases. Latex is therefore vital in society today but has a downside as well. Latex allergy is a growing concern among users. Gloves made out of this material will cause skin reaction and many other signs that have been seen to be allergic reactions. This natural rubber has been studied by experts and there is evidence to show that it is responsible for the allergies.

However, there are different kinds of latex that are synthetic and often times, many people do not know the difference. Regarding synthetic latex, it has been found that they do not contain the proteins that eventually cause these kinds of allergies. This is to say that there are particular proteins in natural rubber that are responsible for reactions. People are therefore advised to reduce the frequency or avoid exposure to these proteins known to be released by the rubber latex.

Apart from exposure through latex rubber gloves, workers can also transmit the allergens to the air. This happens when they change the gloves and the proteins become airborne. This way, people will inhale them and start suffering the symptoms of the allergy. If you are constantly working with these factors around you, it will be wise to know some of the top symptoms that are caused by exposure leading to allergic reaction.

The symptoms and signs include skin rash which is the most announced symptom in this regard. Other signs to look out for include formation of hives, redness and flushing, itching, sinus problems, shock, asthma and the list goes on. Some people will come down with most of these signs while others will just have one symptom. When you notice this problem, it is essential that you do not ignore it. Look for opportunities to avoid contact with this allergen.

Avoidance is the best way to prevent and treat the problem. However, if you have no choice but to be exposed, see your doctor who will advise on the best protection as well as recommend the right medication to take care of the problem. Parents and guardians are advised to pay close attention where kids are concerned. You should be in a position to read some of the signs above and take the necessary step.

A latex skin allergy can be one of the most frustrating of all allergies. It can be caused by rubber gloves, latex pillows, a latex mattress, certain kinds of paint or even condoms.

Who can suffer from latex allergies?

Many times people who work in the healthcare industry develop allergies from latex gloves. Since they use gloves help to fight the spread of germs and bacteria, an allergic reaction to latex can cause serious health issues, not only to the person who suffers from the allergy, but the patience’s they are treating. It’s important to note, in most cases contact with latex is needed to trigger a reaction. However, it is possible for latex allergies to travel through the air. In the health care industry this usually occurs when doctors or nurses take off their gloves, which may release the cornstarch in to the air that carries the latex proteins.

It’s also possible for people to develop a latex allergy from condoms. Not only can this interrupt a couples most intimate moments, but it’s also a serious berth control issue.

Signs and symptoms of latex allergy include the outbreak of a rash or hives in the affect area. This can be followed by tightness in the throat, followed by difficulties in breathing and wheezing. If it’s serous enough these breathing difficulties can result in death.

Because of these severe symptoms, it’s important to see your doctor if think you may be allergic to latex. He’ll be able to find a latex allergy specialist for you to see. Only a specialist will be able to give you the best latex allergy treatment to fit your situation.