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Living with a Latex Allergy
by: Grant Segall
The interesting thing about latex is that it
is a huge part of our society, often without being noticed. For
example, carpet backing, pencil erasers, baby pacifiers, wheelchair
tires, toys, balloons, and even elastic in clothing is latex.
However, most people relate latex to adhesive tape used in hospitals,
which is yet another example. Because so many people have latex
allergy and the number of things made from latex is growing, symptoms
are on the rise.
Latex Allergy
Take the healthcare industry for example – this particular
area is surrounded by latex in the form of tape, surgical gloves,
disposable syringes, and blood pressure cuffs. Because doctor’s
offices, clinics, and hospitals use so much latex, the National
Institute for Occupational Safety and Health have released results
of a study that show a minimum of 12% of all healthcare workers
eventually deal with some level of latex allergy. Even so, the
biggest concern regarding latex allergy relates to children with
disability since their small, sick bodies are highly sensitive
and susceptible, putting them at greater risk.
Keep in mind that when it comes to latex allergy, there are many
different forms of reaction, some minor and some major. For instance,
a Type 1 latex allergy is considered as hypersensitive, which
produces symptoms ranging from minor such as watery eyes and a
runny nose to more severe problems that would include nausea and
vomiting, hives, and shortness of breath. With Type 1, the problem
is that latex particles become airborne and then inhaled.
For Type 4 latex allergy, the reaction is limited to any exposed
area. This would include someone having surgery and the bandages
being held on by latex tape. The result is a skin rash and irritation,
swelling, and redness that typically lasts anywhere from 24 to
48 hours. Obviously, this type of latex allergy is not nearly
as serious although it is quite frustrating.
Keep in mind that latex is actually a natural product that comes
from a rubber tree’s sap. Because it is so flexible, strong,
and costs very little to manufacture, it takes first place over
many similar manmade products. If you suspect that you have a
latex allergy, you can see your doctor for a thorough examination
and blood work. This test involves looking at a certain antibody
called IgE immunoassays, which is performed through skin testing.
This particular test is currently being approved by the Food
and Drug Administration (FDA) and while it is highly accurate
for proving latex allergy, it is not designed to determine the
severity of the allergy. Therefore, in addition to the testing,
if you have reaction to latex, you should avoid using it, turning
instead to vinyl or plastic.
About The Author
Grant Segall RPh is a pharmacist and webmaster of the allergy
related website http://www.allergy-allergy.com.
grant@allergy-allergy.com
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