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| LATEX
ALLERGY |
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| Latex is the allergan of the decade and a relevant
allergy for all Health care workers. First case reported in 1979
internationally. The first case confirmed in South Africa during 1993. There is no such thing as a Latex free area, but the Health and Safety Act of 1993 requires that all hospitals should go powder free. Latex exposure should be minimised (Prof PC Potter) |
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Signs and Symptoms
Red itchy eyes, sneezing, severe frontal headaches, rhinorrhoea, wheezing,
dry cough and dry and itchy skin especially hands.
A Latex allergy test must be done (skin and blood test)
Once you are diagnosed you need to wear a medic alert bracelet. Place an
allergy warning on medical records. Notify employers, supervisors, the
commissioner of occupational disease, medical staff, dentists and any other
places where you or the patient are likely to be in contact with latex
products.
Complications
Chronic rhinitis/sinisitus leading to loss of smell and naso-sino polyposis
requiring surgery. Recurrent otitis media, chronic headaches, asthma, dry skin with ulcers.
High absenteeism due to these conditions can lead to loss of employment.
Anaphylactic shock has been reported in severe cases.
Latex is everywhere, most commonly present in our gloves. Vinyl or nitrile
should be used instead. Others include bloodpressure cuffs and tubing,
oxygen face masks, feeding tubes, pulse oximeter probes, vacolitres and a
million other products. Be aware and try and find alternative products to
minimise exposure.
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| For further information contact Lemmie at
021-4043142 |
LB MOSALA |
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