Latex Allergies, Latex-Free Gloves, Nitrile Gloves, Synthetic Gloves

Disposable Gloves

• What Are Gloves Made Of?
• Latex Allergies
• All About Glove Powder
• Food Gloves and Typhoid Mary
• Benefits of a Good Glove Fit
• Latex Allergy Symptoms
• Hygiene Tips for Food Service Gloves
• Student Lab Gloves
• Disposable Gloves and H1N1
• Disposable Gloves Manufacturing
• Guide for Choosing the Proper Glove
• Safety Tips for Tattoo Artists

“Are you allergic to latex?” a routine question asked in doctors’ offices, hospitals and labs.


If you have not been formally diagnosed with a latex allergy but are suspicious that you may be developing one, what symptoms should you be looking for?


Airborne Latex Allergy Symptoms: Individuals may experience an allergic reaction similar to hay fever when repeatedly exposed to airborne latex particles such as those commonly released with the use of powdered gloves. Symptoms include coughing, stuffy nose, itchy and watery eyes, a rash or hives and difficulty breathing.


Allergic Contact Dermatitis Symptoms: This is very different from irritant contact dermatitis which causes skin to become red and cracked, a common enough occurrence among regular glove wearers. Allergic contact dermatitis is an actual allergic response to the latex proteins in the gloves or other residual chemicals used in the manufacturing process. A skin rash may appear within 24 to 48 hours after contact and can spread to areas of the body beyond the hands. The rash may turn to weeping blisters.


Anaphylactic Shock Symptoms: This is the 9-1-1 of latex allergy responses because it is potentially fatal. The reaction is immediate upon latex exposure and causes constriction of airways and breathing difficulty. Dizziness and a radical drop in blood pressure can cause loss of consciousness. Wheezing, speech difficulties, confusion, rapid or weak pulse, bluish skin color, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea are other indicators of anaphylactic shock.