Type IV, the most common latex allergy, is less serious. The symptoms include dry skin, hives, tingling sensations, or itching. Symptoms usually appear 48-72 hours after the initial exposure. Latex allergies are relatively rare. People that are continually exposed to latex, have spina bifida, or have had multiple surgeries are at a higher risk of developing an allergy to latex.
Latex allergies seem to be increasing.
There was only one reported case of a latex allergy in early 1980. During 1999, scientists with the American Dental Association Research Institute will investigate ways to reduce allergic reactions to latex gloves. There are about 256 proteins found in natural latex gloves. The scientists hope to identify the specific proteins that cause latex allergy. It may be possible to reduce allergic reactions by eliminating some of the proteins present in the gloves.