Latex allergy affects 8-17% of healthcare workers — far higher than the general population. Symptoms range from contact dermatitis to life-threatening anaphylaxis. Even workers who aren't truly allergic often develop irritant contact dermatitis from prolonged glove use.
While nitrile gloves have largely replaced latex in healthcare settings, glove-related hand problems persist. The issue isn't always the material — it's the occlusion, the powder (in older gloves), and the accumulated effect of wearing gloves for hours every day.
Types of Glove Reactions
Irritant contact dermatitis is most common — dry, itchy, cracked skin from the glove environment. Allergic contact dermatitis involves immune reaction to chemicals in glove material. True latex allergy involves IgE-mediated immune response that can progress to anaphylaxis.
Protective Strategies
Cotton glove liners worn under examination gloves can reduce irritation for some workers. Frequent glove changes prevent excessive humidity buildup. Self-adhering tape can protect particularly vulnerable areas like fingertips and cuticles without adding bulk that interferes with dexterity.
Get proper testing to understand what you're reacting to. Irritant dermatitis, allergic contact dermatitis, and true latex allergy require different management strategies. Occupational health can arrange appropriate testing.