Latex gloves are commonly used in medical and health care settings, and are also sold for use at home for those wishing to protect their hands while performing a variety of tasks around the house. Latex gloves may be purchased from medical supply stores, and are readily available in hospitals, doctor's offices and surgical clinics. Some people can wear latex gloves without any problems, but some are mildly or severely allergic to the components of latex found in these gloves. Learning to recognize the signs and symptoms of a latex allergy may help you avoid potential allergic reactions.
Rubber Allergies
Latex rubber gloves contain components of the Hevea brasiliensis rubber tree. The latex produced from this tree is a type of allergen that may people may experience skin reactions from. In most cases, a skin allergy or reaction to latex may take time to develop, so symptoms may be mild at first. Such symptoms may include tingling, itching and mild skin irritation. Patients who experience repeated surgeries, including younger patients, may develop a sensitivity to the rubber allergen, according to Dr. Sumana Reddy and American Family Physician.
Rash
The presence of a rash is often the first sign that an allergen has irritated the surface of the skin. Rash is diagnosed by observing tiny red spots or bumps on the skin in the area where latex rubber gloves covered. You may also notice skin cracking or tears in the area of contact, or a patch of red, scaly skin in the area. In most cases, symptoms of a rash may appear within minutes or two days following contact. Your rash may be mild or more severe, with papules or blisters covering the hands.
Hives
A person with a moderately severe reaction to latex gloves may experience hives, or red, raised welts that may appear on the hands as well as other parts of the body. Hives are a systemic reaction by the immune system against the allergen causing the reaction. For most, the hives go away on their own within a couple of days, but in some cases, hives also cause mucous membranes to swell, including those of the mouth and throat, making breathing difficult, according to Medline Plus and the National Institutes of Health.
Anaphylactic Shock
A person with a severe allergy to latex gloves may experience a condition known as anaphylactic shock. This condition may be life threatening. Also known as anaphylaxis, such reactions can occur within seconds of exposure to an allergen, cautions the Mayo Clinic. This condition causes a drastic drop in blood pressure, can cause airways to the lungs to narrow, reduce vision, and cause severe swelling of the lips, eyes and mouth.
