surfing; allergic hand reactions to neorene gloves

mickstah · 03-18-2001, 12:04 PM

I'm curious to know if anyone has the following problem, and if so, know how to get relief. I surf in the winter, and have to wear neoprene gloves to stay warm. My hands do not get cold at all, they stay pretty warm (no cold urticaria). About 12 hours after I surf, my hands become fire engine red (palms only), and are very warm to the touch. They stay that way for about 8-10 hours, then begin to peel (skin becomes dry/flakey). I've been tested for Raynaud's, latex allergies, and have none. I've never been tested for neoprene, and don't know if there is one. I've held off surfing for the past 3 mo.'s, and finally had to go (water temp. 47 degrees F). Of course, the reaction occurred again as described above. If anyone has had this happen to them, PLEASE respond. Thanks! Mickey

TheBoostress · 07-14-2002, 12:20 AM

I think I have a similar problem. I notice no one responded, though. I'm wearing a wrist brace for Carpal Tunnel. It feels like some slight warmth to my skin when I'm wearing the brace (just got this afternoon).

Did you have any luck w/this allergy?

------------------
TheBoostress

MICN · 07-14-2002, 01:51 AM

This may seem like splitting hairs....but have you been tested for an allergy to "black rubber"? I know that latex (which I am allergic to) IS rubber, but initially, what I showed a positive to (via 'patch testing') was "black rubber". It was a dermatologist that administered this test, not an allergist....the allergist could never elicit a "histamine response", so he didn't even bother with further testing with latex specifically. Just a thought~ http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/idea.gif

mickstah · 07-14-2002, 08:22 PM

Thanks for responding. I appreciate the info. about getting tested for "Black Rubber" MICN. Boostress, did a therapist make the brace for you, or was it over the counter? Some materials used to fabricate the braces (thermoplastic splinting material) can cause an allergic reaction. You might want to try taking a thin sock, preferebly cotton, cut a hole where your thumb goes, and wearing that under the brace, to help absorb sweat. Good luck, Mickstah

TheBoostress · 07-14-2002, 08:48 PM

Thanks for your responses! (The Internet is so-o cool)

As yet, MICN, I haven't been tested for allergy to black rubber...wouldn't be surprised to have an allergy for it, though!

Mickstah, I bought the brace from Sav-On. Sock idea is great! Thanks again!

------------------
TheBoostress