Latex Facts

Latex is a product that is commonly used in many everyday items, in medical equipment and in industry. Latex is used for its durability, strength, malleability and versatility as a material.

Properties

• Latex is a rubber that occurs naturally in the milky sap of the rubber tree (Latin name, Hevea brasiliensis). The sap of the tree is softened by heating or using mechanical rollers; this is to make the sap able to absorb other ingredients such as pigments, plasticizers and preservatives. Latex is three to four times more durable than polyurethane foam and is mold, mildew and dust mite resistant.

Uses

• Latex is used for rubber gloves, car and cycle tires, pacifiers, condoms, balloons, catheters and wet suits, to name just a few. It is used in these products because of its natural durability and strength. Latex is also used in foam mattresses because of its resistance to dust mites

Allergies

• Some people may have an allergy to latex, which in the most extreme cases can be fatal. A latex allergy may only come to light when a person uses latex gloves or a condom or when he handles a latex product. An allergy will cause eczema-like symptoms such as skin redness, irritation, cracked skin and oozing blemishes. It may also cause respiratory problems and in severe cases allergic shock. If you suspect a latex allergy, seek medical help immediately.