G.W. Schamback runs Perfect Smile Dental in Stuart, Florida. Dr. Schamback is always educating himself and his staff on the newest technological advances in dentistry in order to offer you state-of-the-art, comfortable, and personalized dental care. Here, he explains latex allergies, which some patients experience as a response to the gloves used by dentists. If you have a latex allergy, please tell your dentist right away.
In recent years, naturally occurring latex has been linked to allergic reactions in people who use such products as latex gloves. The proteins in the latex, which can also become airborne, can cause problems such as trouble breathing and a full-body rash. Some resulting allergic reactions, including anaphylactic shock, have been more severe.
Numerous health experts have attributed the dramatic rise of allergic reactions to latex in the healthcare community to the increased use of gloves and other personal protection equipment. Latex is also used in many household items — from toys and balloons to rubber bands and condoms.
Latex allergies could cause the following symptoms:
- Dry skin
- Hives
- Low blood pressure
- Nausea
- Respiratory problems
- Tingling sensations
Other than healthcare workers, people who are highly at risk for developing latex allergies include those who have:
- A history of multiple surgical procedures
- Spina bifida
- Myelodysplasia (defects in the bone marrow cells)
- A deformed bladder or urinary tract
- Persistent exposure to rubber-tipped catheters (such as a urinary catheter)
- Persistent exposure to rubber dams (used for certain types of dental procedures)
- A history of allergies, asthma, or eczema
- Food allergies to bananas, avocados, kiwis, tomatoes, or chestnuts
Remember, a latex sensitivity is different from latex allergy. With a latex sensitivity, you could develop a swelling or a rash (contact dermatitis) in the area where the latex gloves touched you. A true allergic reaction is more serious, less common, and would cause symptoms including shortness of breath, wheezing, a full-body rash, and swelling.
If you are vulnerable to latex or have allergies related to it, please contact Perfect Smile Dental and seek medical attention from your family physician. Dentists like us have a latex-free protocol for patients with latex allergies. We will also make a note of your allergy in our medical record.
The information in the article is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.
