For workers who become hypersensitive to latex gloves and other natural rubber-containing products, such as medical supplies, allergies to latex rubber have been highlighted as a severe hazard. The most typical reaction to latex products is the development of dry, itchy, and irritated skin patches (irritant contact dermatitis), typically on the hands. However, the symptoms differ from person to person. Rashes and skin blisters, both of which can leave the latex-touched area of skin, are possible further effects (allergic contact dermatitis). This response is comparable to the poison ivy response. Another way to become exposed to latex is by breathing in (inhaling) it (e.g., particles that are released when the gloves are removed). It may not be essential for a person to touch a specific product that contains latex because the protein's particles can become airborne and settle on other surfaces. Immediate hypersensitivity may include respiratory symptoms like runny nose, sneezing, itchy eyes, and scratchy throat as well as asthmatic symptoms like coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, tightness in the chest, and more severe reactions like swelling of the face, lips, and airways. With avoidance, symptoms usually go away quickly, although a person will still be sensitive. There could be severe anaphylactic shock reactions. A life-threatening reaction is not typically the first indication of a latex allergy, though. In the event of a severe response, seek immediate medical attention.
Describe latex.
Some shrubs, trees, and plants, including the commercial rubber tree, generate latex, a sticky, milky sap (Havea Braziliensis). A protein-based covering covers the small droplets of water and hydrocarbon polymer that make up the latex sap. Latex rubber, sometimes referred to as natural rubber, is made from the sap. To give the natural rubber product the desired strength, stretch, and durability attributes, various chemicals must be added to latex. Products made of rubber can be kept from adhering to one another by using starch. Additionally, it makes donning latex gloves simpler.
What causes an allergy to latex?
According to research, a protein component of natural latex is a key allergen trigger. The protein can be taken in through the skin or by inhaling the protein-containing powder. However, substances like starch powder, which is present in modern gloves, and zinc diethyldithiocarbamate, which is added to latex, have also triggered allergic reactions in susceptible individuals.
Which professions are in danger?
For many people, including: Health care workers, latex allergy is an occupational health threat (operating room workers, dental care workers, special procedure and general medical nurses, emergency response workers). laboratory personnel. employees in greenhouses. employees of hair salons. Estheticians. employees of glove manufacturers. Serving food personnel: Housekeepers. either police or enforcement. Other workers that safeguard themselves by wearing latex gloves. Other goods, including: Other gloves, contain latex (dishwashing, etc.). further medical gadgets (tubes, blood pressure cuffs, respirators, masks, pads, etc.). Carpeting. Clothing with elastic. Balloons. handles on bicycles, racquets, tools, etc. tubes and tires. Rubber bands and erasers. Rubber toys and parts. This is not an exhaustive list.
How frequent is it?
According to OSHA, 8 to 12% of healthcare professionals in the US are latex sensitive. There is proof that certain individuals who are sensitive to particular foods (such as banana, avocado, kiwi, passion fruit, and chestnuts), some pollen, and some grasses, may also become allergic to latex.
How can latex allergy be avoided?
Workers can avoid developing latex allergies by limiting their exposure to the substance. Employers ought to: Make use of non-latex alternatives. Make sure that employees follow safe working and cleaning procedures to maintain the workplace free of latex-containing dust, such as avoiding contact with the face and eyes, washing hands after removing gloves, and vacuuming with HEPA filters. Provide latex allergy education seminars for employees. Send out yearly questionnaires for workplaces that frequently use latex gloves. An allergist should be consulted by anyone who suspects they have a latex rubber allergy in order to determine whether they are genuinely allergic to latex (natural rubber) or to compounds found in synthetic rubbers. In order to use different products, they should also inform their doctors and dentists.""" - https://www.affordablecebu.com/
