Understanding Latex Allergy
in the Healthcare Setting

OCCUPATIONAL ASTHMA More and more healthcare workers are developing occupational asthma, a lung disease caused by inhaling workplace fumes, gases, or, in the healthcare environment, glove powder. In developed countries, it is the most common work-related lung disease. Although its exact prevalence is unknown, some researchers estimate it may account for 9 percent of asthma cases. Occupational asthma can develop even if you have never had asthma before or had childhood asthma that previously cleared. It can worsen any pre-existing asthma. With treatment, occupational asthma is usually reversible. However, the only way to prevent its worst complication – permanent lung damage – is to completely avoid the substance causing the disease. It is possible to develop occupational asthma in almost any workplace, but the risk is highest in certain occupations. The Mayo Clinic listed the top 15 jobs at risk, and healthcare workers were part of that list. The asthma-producing substance found in the hospital setting is the latex particles contained in aerosolized glove powder. Signs and symptoms may include wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, difficulty exercising, runny nose, and eye irritation. During the early stages of the disease, symptoms develop shortly after exposure, and up to 12 hours after exposure. Asthma may worsen as the workweek progresses, and subside during weekends and vacations, only to reoccur upon return to work. In the later stages, symptoms may also develop away from work. Once the lungs have developed a pattern of overreacting to the offending substance, sensitivities to other substances may develop, such as house dust, cigarette smoke, and cold air. The diagnosis for occupational asthma is made by an allergist on the basis of medical history and physical exam. The physician may perform pulmonary function tests, spirometry, and peak flow tests. The best treatment is to completely avoid the substance that causes symptoms. Asthma medications to help relieve symptoms may be prescribed. It might be necessary for healthcare workers to transfer to another job to prevent exposure to glove powder. Once again, the healthcare organization that removes powdered gloves from the organization is being proactive in ensuring the health and safety of employees and patients.

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