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Q: What is latex allergy?
A: Latex is a type of natural rubber that comes from trees. Gloves
used by dentists and hygienists are often made of latex. It also
is a component in many regular consumer products, including baby-bottle
nipples and balloons, to name just two.
Some people are allergic to latex. In mild cases, a person may
experience a tingling sensation or itching, hives and dry skin. These
symptoms usually appear from 48 to 72 hours after exposure. In some
cases, people allergic to latex suffer a drop in blood pressure,
nausea and difficulty breathing. Some suffer anaphylactic shock,
a potentially fatal condition in which blood pressure plummets and
breathing becomes difficult.
If you know or think you are allergic to latex—or to any other
substance—you should talk with your dentist about it. For one
thing, gloves made of other materials are available for your dentist
and hygienist to use.
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