Is it a latex allergy if you're only allergic to wearing gloves?!
Question:
Is it a latex allergy if you're only allergic to wearing gloves?
I break out in hives if I wear powdered gloves, but I'm fine with balloons, rubber bands, kitchen gloves, bottle nipples, etc etc...
What does this mean?
Answers:
This may mean an allergy to all latex. When the powdered latex gloves are removed, they are often "snapped" and latex will adhere to the powder, becoming airborne. You may be breathing in the latex this way. I encourage you to avoid all latex products. I have seen students slightly allergic to powdered latex gloves who are later exposed to latex products such as catheters and medical tape who have severe reactions; I have taken students to the hospital for this. If one exposure to latex causes an allergic reaction, future reactions may be severe or anaphylactic, which is life-threatening.