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Is Silicone Safe For Latex Allergy

Are Silicone Pacifiers As Soft As Latex

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However, they are not as soft as latex nipples. Silicone pacifiers are not bite-resistant or nearly as flexible as latex. Consumer Reports recommends that parents purchase pacifiers made out of silicone instead of latex since some babies can develop sensitivity or an allergy to latex over time 4 .

The Living Hell Of A Latex Allergy

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Marshall, who is in her 30s and lives in Pennsylvania, is severely allergic to natural rubber latex, or rather, the proteins in milky sap harvested from rubber trees, which is then processed into latex. As much as 6 percent of the population have the allergy.

Most people with a;latex allergy aren’t too affected: Usually they get skin reactions like hives or swelling when they touch highly allergenic items like condoms, Band-Aids, or dishwashing gloves. But some people get asthma from breathing in airborne latex proteins. It’s also common to become allergic to foods that contain similar proteins to rubber, like avocados, kiwis, and bananas. And, an unlucky few get full-blown, life-threatening anaphylactic reactions, similar to bee-sting allergies: rapid heartbeat, trouble breathing, shockor worse.

Latex allergies;first made it onto the medical radar in the late 1980s and early ’90s, when an alarming number of patients with spina bifida began having severe, life-threatening anaphylaxis during surgery. Around the same time, large numbers of doctors, nurses, and other healthcare workers were reporting health issues, and even leaving their jobs because of it. Researchers concluded that the culprit was latex.

Lsr/lim And Other Industry Applications

Advances in material and injection molding technologies have enabled the medical/healthcare industry to improve the process of how companies manufacture medical devices. Silicone has replaced latex for a variety of products and devices, and in most cases, provides a safe latex alternative. The low cost of silicone makes it possible to efficiently and cost-effectively create gloves, gowns, syringes and many more products.

The processes for medical device approval include stringent regulatory requirements in the states and internationally. These processes help ensure the safety of the products for patients and healthcare workers. Its critical to have a person on your team that understands the intricacies of material selection, as well as how to choose the right molding process.

If you want your medical device to meet the required specifications, choose a company with knowledge of the needed internal policies and procedures. This includes implementation of an audit trail designed to lessen the chances of incurring a problem and an expensive product recall.

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When To See A Doctor

If youre having a reaction on your vulva or in your vagina, feel like latex condoms are to blame, and your ob-gyn has ruled out other sources of irritation, you may want to see an allergist who can do allergy testing to determine your latex sensitivity, Dr. Wider says. If you can see your doctor while youre having a mild reaction, the Mayo Clinic says thats even betterit can help with your diagnosis.

Once you get a proper diagnosis, your doctor will recommend a treatment plan for the future.

However you choose to handle a latex condom allergy, we’re wishing you and all of your parts good luck.

What Is An Silicone Elastomer

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As you can probably guess by our name, Silicone Engineering is;a silicone elastomer manufacturer. This is where our expertise lies and has done since we first opened in 1959. In this section we will go into more detail about elastomers and in particular silicone.

An elastomer is a polymer with viscoelasticity and very weak inter-molecular forces, generally having low Youngs modulus and high failure strain compared with other materials. The term, which is derived from elastic polymer, is often used interchangeably with the termrubber.

Each of the monomers which link to form the silicone polymer is usually made of carbon, hydrogen, oxygen and/or silicon. Their primary uses are for seals, adhesives and molded flexible parts.

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When Should I See My Healthcare Provider About A Latex Allergy

If you think youâre having an allergic reaction to latex, see your provider right away. If your throat is swelling or youâre having trouble breathing, call 911 or go to the emergency room. Donât ignore signs of an allergic reaction. A latex allergy can be fatal, and itâs essential to get help immediately.

A note from Cleveland Clinic

Millions of people manage allergies by making lifestyle changes, such as reading labels carefully and avoiding certain foods. These changes arenât always easy, but they are a vital part of staying well. With the help of an allergy specialist, you can lower your risk of an allergic response. Learn to recognize signs of a reaction so you can get help right away, and let others know about your allergy so they can act fast if you need assistance.

Last reviewed by a Cleveland Clinic medical professional on 10/26/2020.

References

When To Call The Doctor

Your provider may prescribe epinephrine if you are at risk of a severe allergic reaction to latex. Know how to use this medicine if you have an allergic reaction.

  • Epinephrine is injected and slows down or stops allergic reactions.
  • Epinephrine comes as a kit.
  • Carry this medicine with you if you have had a severe reaction to latex in the past.
  • Dry, itchy skin

Latex products; Latex allergy; Latex sensitivity; Contact dermatitis – latex allergy

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Can You Be Allergic To Silicone Rings

Silicone wedding rings are manmade from silicon . Manufacturers add elements like carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen to create strong bonds and make the material durable and able to withstand just about anything. Silicone is not a naturally occurring mineral or element, though, which means that some people can be allergic to it. This is rare, but its important to understand the signs of a silicone allergy so you can avoid it if you have this reaction.

Why Does A Latex Allergy Happen

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When youre exposed to latex and you have a latex allergy, it causes a chain reaction in your body that starts in your immune system, the AAAAI explains. Your immune system, which controls how your body defends itself, overreacts by producing antibodies called Immunoglobulin E that can react with contaminating proteins found in latex. The antibodies then travel to cells that release chemicals, causing an allergic reaction in your body.

Its unclear why, exactly, some people develop a latex allergy, but the Mayo Clinic says that repeated exposure may increase sensitivity to the material. So people with spina bifida , health care workers, those who have been through several surgeries or medical procedures, and rubber industry workers are at the highest risk of having a latex allergy.

Just a heads up: There seems to be a link between having a latex allergy and reactions to certain foods, like avocados, chestnuts, kiwis, and bananas. Its likely because they have similar proteins to the ones in natural latex, according to the AAAAI. If those foods give you trouble, theres a chance you could have an issue with latex.

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Latex Allergy Home Triggers

An allergy to latex can become worse the more you come in contact with it. If you know you have this condition, be aware of products that may have the potential to cause a reaction. Ask your doctor if you need to avoid them.

Many items have latex in them. Read product labels carefully. You may need to ask product makers to be sure.

Home goods that are made with latex include:

  • Rubber sink stoppers and sink mats
  • Gloves for dishwashing and household cleaning
  • Rubber or rubber-grip utensils
  • Adult undergarments that contain rubber
  • Waterproof bed pads containing rubber
  • Undergarments, socks, and other clothing with elastic bands that contain rubber
  • Adhesives such as glue, paste, art supplies, glue pens
  • Older Barbie dolls and other dolls that are made of rubber
  • Rubber bands, mouse and keyboard cords, desktop and chair pads, rubber stamps
  • Mouse and wrist pads containing rubber
  • Keyboards and calculators with rubber keys or switches
  • Pens with comfort grip or any rubber coating
  • Remote controllers for TVs or recording devices with rubber grips or keys
  • Camera, telescope, or binocular eyepieces
  • Bathing caps and elastic in bathing suits
  • Some rain boots and raincoats

Outside the home, latex is also in many items, such as:

  • Grocery store checkout belts
  • Dental devices

How To Get Tested For A Silicone Allergy

If you think you might have a silicone allergy, your doctor will order tests to confirm the suspicion. A skin patch test is very common for testing for the presence of a silicone allergy.

How its done is by exposing a small area of skin to the allergen, which will take the form of diluted and pure silicon. During the test, youll be told to wait for observation so that doctors can see what symptoms, if any, arise.;

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What A Latex Allergy Is

Latex is a fluid that comes from rubber trees, which is where most natural rubber is derived, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology . Lots of things are made from latex including gloves, balloons, and rubber bands, per the AAAAI. Oh, and, you know, the most common type of condom.

A latex allergy is exactly what youd expect: an allergic reaction caused by an exposure to latex. Allergies happen when your immune system overreacts to an otherwise harmless substance, leading to allergy symptoms. More on that specific process in a bit.

How Long Do Symptoms Last

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It depends on how severe of a reaction you had and how its been treated, if at all. People with a severe allergic reaction to latex may need to either carry injectable epinephrine with them at all times, or go to the E.R. for an immediate injection of epinephrine, the Mayo Clinic says. That injection should help stop your symptoms quickly. If you have a less severe reaction, your doctor may prescribe antihistamines or corticosteroids, which can help control your symptoms.

In the case of condoms, it can vary. If you consistently have a reaction following sex with latex condomsusually within a day and lasting one to four daysand the symptoms are not present otherwise or after sex without the latex condom, then an allergy should be suspected, Dr. Schaffir says.

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Who Is At Risk

Since sensitivity is more likely to build up over time, health care workers and others who frequently wear latex gloves are at highest risk.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration estimates that 8 to 12 percent of health care workers are latex-sensitive. Workers in plants that produce natural rubber latex or that manufacture products containing natural rubber latex;might;also be at greater risk. FDA estimates that 1 to 6 percent of the general population may also be sensitive to natural rubber latex.

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and OSHA recommend anyone with ongoing exposure to natural rubber latex to take the following steps for protection from allergic reactions:

How To Fuck Safely When You Have A Latex Allergy

From condoms to full BDSM bodysuits, weve got you covered

Wearing a condom is one of the simplest ways to prevent pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases unless you have a latex allergy, in which case its the simplest way to make your dick feel like its been dipped in hot wax.

But even you with your pesky latex allergy ;can engage in safe sex by simply using non-latex condoms. In fact, there are three major condom materials that several experts recommend

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How To Avoid Latex

Always tell any provider, dentist, or person who draws blood from you that you have a latex allergy. More and more, people wear gloves in the workplace and elsewhere to protect their hands and avoid germs. These tips can help you avoid latex:

  • If people use latex products in your workplace, tell your employer you are allergic to it. Stay away from areas at work where latex is used.
  • Wear a medical alert bracelet so that others know you are allergic to latex, in case you have a medical emergency.
  • Before eating at a restaurant, ask if food handlers wear latex gloves when handling or preparing food. While rare, some very sensitive people have gotten sick from food prepared by handlers wearing latex gloves. Proteins from the latex gloves can transfer to food and kitchen surfaces.

Carry a pair of vinyl or other non-latex gloves with you and have more at home. Wear them when you handle items that:

  • Someone who wore latex gloves touched
  • May have latex in them but you are not sure

For children who are allergic to latex:

  • Make sure daycare providers, babysitters, teachers, and your children’s friends and their families know that your children have latex allergies.
  • Tell your children’s dentists and other providers such as doctors and nurses.
  • Teach your child not to touch toys and other products that contain latex.
  • Choose toys that are made of wood, metal, or cloth that does not contain elastic. If you are not sure if a toy has latex, check the packaging or call the toy maker.

What Products Might Cause A Reaction

What is a Silicone Elastomer?

Latex is found in many products. Listed below are some products to avoid, and some latex-free choices.

Contain latex
cloth or plastic edges on clothing
elastic edges on diapers cloth diapers, some brands of disposables
glue

If you are unsure about a product, ask the manufacturer whether it contains latex.

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Types Of Latex Allergies

There are three types of latex reactions:

1. Irritant contact dermatitis. This is the least-threatening type, and itâs not an allergic skin reaction. It usually happens due to repeated exposure to chemicals in latex gloves and leads to dryness, itching, burning, scaling, and skin problems. This generally starts 12-24 hours after contact.

2. Allergic contact dermatitis. This is a delayed reaction to additives used in latex processing. It results in the same type of reactions as irritant contact dermatitis. But the reaction is more severe, spreads to more parts of the body, and lasts longer. Symptoms can start anywhere from 1 to 4 days after you’ve come in contact with latex.

3. Immediate allergic reaction . This one is the most serious. It can show up as a nasal allergy with hay fever-like symptoms, conjunctivitis , cramps, hives, and severe itching. Itâs rare, but symptoms may also include rapid heartbeat, tremors, chest pain, trouble breathing, low blood pressure, or anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction that can be life-threatening.

If you have severe symptoms, call your doctor or 911 immediately, or go to the nearest emergency room.

What Are Latex Allergy Symptoms

In most cases, latex allergy develops after many previous exposures to latex. Latex allergy symptoms may include;hives, itching, stuffy or runny nose. It can cause;asthma symptoms;of wheezing, chest tightness and difficulty breathing. Symptoms begin within minutes after exposure to latex containing products. The most severe latex allergy can result in;anaphylaxis, a serious allergic reaction involving severe breathing difficulty and/or fall in blood pressure .

Allergic skin problems can occur following direct contact with allergic latex proteins in latex glove products. Symptoms may include immediate itching, redness and swelling of skin that touched the item containing latex. These and other latex allergic reactions are less common now. Many hospitals or doctors offices have switched to non-latex gloves or low protein latex gloves.

A second type of skin allergy called allergic contact dermatitis may be caused by chemicals used to manufacture rubber gloves. This dermatitis is recognized by the;eczema;and blisters on the back of the hands. It resembles a poison ivy rash, and begins 1 to 3 days after wearing rubber gloves.

Direct physical contact with latex products is not needed to trigger an allergic reaction. Anaphylaxis and severe asthmatic reactions have been caused by inhaling latex proteins in the air resulting from the powder in the latex glove.

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What Are The Symptoms Of A Silicone Allergy

If you suspect that you have a silicone allergy, youll probably experience symptoms such as the following after coming into contact with silicone:

  • Itchy and swollen bumps on the skin
  • Swelling of hands, legs, or other body parts
  • Eye infections. This can take the form of watery, red, or itchy eyes, and it occurs when the allergens enter the bloodstream
  • Nausea
  • Swelling of the airways and throat
  • Severe asthma

Repeated exposure to silicone can lead to anaphylactic shock, a life-threatening emergency!

The above list is scary, but its worth bearing in mind that most people who have a silicone allergy will experience mild symptoms, usually what is known as contact-based allergic reactions.

Contact-based allergies mean that the skin will experience a reaction after touching the product, in this case a product made of silicone.

So, what you might find is that some of the symptoms in the above list will occur: red skin or a raised rash in the area of your body that came into contact with the silicone. You might also experience itchiness and swelling, as these are both common reactions.

If you find out that you have a silicone allergy, its important to avoid contact with all silicone products.

The problem is that silicone is in our daily lives as its become a popular material used in the production of many useful products. Heres a list of common silicone items that you might come into contact with on a regular basis.;;

These are just a few products that can contain silicone.

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