latex allergy

[MisPlacedTexan]

Can anyone describe the symptoms of latex allergy?

My hands are about to itch me to death!:angryfire I also have intense itching on other extremities but my hands seem to be the worst. First I thought it was an allergic reaction to cold medication I was taking, I discontinued that, and the itching continues. It's 5 days now! It got so intense yesterday, I had to go to the ER for a shot. It only worked for a few hrs., now the intense itching is back. Since I'm employed in the medical field and use latex, the first question the dr. asked was if I am allergic to latex. That had never crossed my mind. Now, I'm wondering if that is what has caused this horrible itch.

Please...any info?

[TMPaul]

Can anyone describe the symptoms of latex allergy?

My hands are about to itch me to death!:angryfire I also have intense itching on other extremities but my hands seem to be the worst. First I thought it was an allergic reaction to cold medication I was taking, I discontinued that, and the itching continues. It's 5 days now! It got so intense yesterday, I had to go to the ER for a shot. It only worked for a few hrs., now the intense itching is back. Since I'm employed in the medical field and use latex, the first question the dr. asked was if I am allergic to latex. That had never crossed my mind. Now, I'm wondering if that is what has caused this horrible itch.

Please...any info?

Sounds like a Type 1 allergy to me. You can get more info on the NIOSH website as well as OSHA's website. :)

[GingerSue]

I remember working with a nurse who had skin problems - she wore thin white gloves while working - could you wear some kind of thin cotton glove under the latex gloves?

[chris_at_lucas_RN, RN]

Sounds like classic latex allergy/contact dermatitis to me.... I bet its worse with the ones with "powder" (you know that's powdered latex, right?)

Your employer should provide you with nonlatex gloves. They work just as well but you don't break out.

Also, you should advise your employer that you have the latex allergy (they always ask when you get hired).

Good luck!

[bellcollector]

I would suggest you talk to your MD about it. A latex allergy can become dangerous if it progresses/continous contact. Chris is right if you have a latex allergy you work is required to provide latex free products to you. Good luck.