Hi to all. I am new to the group, but unfortunately am 8 years
running with the latex allergy. I have had many problems along the
way, including uncooperative hospitals, Emergency depts. and the
like. I have multiple medical problems and have had 14 surgeries, but
yet the hospital still doesn't get it when I have to have the 1st
surgical slot in the AM so that there are fewer latex proteins.
Despite that precaution last time, I ended up on a vent for awhile
after surgery to the proteins in the air.
I am an RN and work with children, which is the most rewarding
career, but my allergy has limited the areas in which I am able to
work and now may have halted work for me for good-at least for now.
I was at a recertification for pediatric advanced life support (PALS)
and on the 2nd day I was exposed to latex by accident and it just -
BAM!- hit me like never before. I have had severe rx, but this time I
tried albuterol a few times, benadryl, vistaril and had my epi pen
ready when it just suddenly hit me like a ton of bricks. Luckily one
of the ED docs from my hospital who knows me was there and he and 2
other ED docs from that hospital grabbed me and ran me to the ED for
anaphylaxis. I now have to carry 3 epi-pens and am on steroids for
who knows how long since last week's episode, but I am still shaking,
wondering what would have happened if I had not been in a hospital,
with a physician familiar with my allergies and an allergy bracelet
(which nobody ever checked by the way).
I am sure many of you have had some similar reactions and I am glad
not to be alone and glad that I can share this with someone because
no one here knows what it is like.
I am aware of many sites because I looked them up a few yrs. ago. I
don't find much about what I, as a healthcare worker, can do though.
I can apply for disability due to my other problems, but what do I do
about figuring out if I can still even work in my field anymore? I
started doing some temp work for the state head start and guess what?
They require latex glove use for many tasks, including diaper
changes. I basically can work in respite care if I get my own
supplies. I have learned not to ask employers to get me latex free
supplies...they find a way to "weed" you out quickly.