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Allergy to Duct Tape Adhesive

Duct tape is strong and durable thanks to its three layers. The top is made of polyethylene, a type of plastic, and the middle layer is a fabric mesh. The third layer, the adhesive, is rubber-based. If you are reacting to the adhesive, you likely have a latex allergy.

  1. What Latex is

    • Latex is the sap of the Brazilian rubber tree, and it's used to make natural rubber.

    What Rubbed is Used for

    • Natural rubber, in turn, is used to make hundreds of products, from medical devices and latex gloves to the adhesive in duct tape. Not all brands of these products contain latex, so it's important to check labels.

    What Latex Allergy is

    • Latex allergy is a reaction to a protein in latex. If you are allergic to latex and come in contact with rubber, or breathe in the protein, you may develop a skin rash, develop swollen lips or tongue, have trouble breathing, faint or, in rare cases, go into shock.

    Cross Reactions

    • People with latex allergies sometimes react to foods that come from rubber tree-related plants. These include several fruits such as kiwi, pineapple, peaches, strawberries and bananas, as well as chestnuts, hazelnuts, wheat and rye.

    What You Can Do

    • Avoid using latex products--check labels carefully--if you're allergic. Ensure that your doctor and dentist is aware of your latex allergy, and make sure they use non-latex gloves and equipment. Learn as much as you can about latex allergy and discuss it with your doctor.

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