tape allergy

[djbyrne]

My husband has been a diabetic since age 11.  He has a known allergy to tape.  Currently he wears an insulin pump and a continuous glucose monitor.  Even though we use skin prep, he still at times rashes with the tegaderm(we have tried several brands).He puts hydrocortisone on his skin, but i am thinking tht possibly there is another type of cream to use on the rash.  Anyone hve any ideas?

[qmsmas]

This is vital to notice. There are a variety of various allergens that one could be exposed to while using tape. Latex, the tape itself, and also the adhesive.

• Latex-Free: latex is one of the simplest tape allergies to avoid as several tapes are latex-free. for instance, Dynarex options a latex-free patch, paper, and fabric tape. Andover options a latex-free cohesive wrap and all 3M medical tapes are latex-free.
• Allergies to the tape: this implies that you simply are allergic to one thing in the material of the tape. To avoid this kind of allergies, several makers build hypoallergenic tapes. All 3M tapes are hypoallergenic and Medtronic (formerly referred to as Covidien) makes many brands of the hypoallergenic tape yet like the Curity, Microfoam, and Tenderskin.
• Allergies to adhesives: this implies that you simply have an allergic reaction to the adhesives on the tape rather than the tape itself. 3M Makes a silicone-based adhesive that's hypoallergenic yet. This adhesive is featured on the Kind Removal Tape.

[JusticeFlight]

Unfortunately some of us are even allergic to "hypoallergenic" tapes. I am allergic to the adhesives in tapes...and every time I tell them that in the ER they say, "Even paper tape?" Yuuuuuup! Even paper tape. Every time I go to the hospital I get IV Benedryl.  Careful, it packs a kick!! It will make you feel like you got a shot of morphine almost! *laugh*

Seriously, I have taken Benedryl orally and smeared it all over my face, after removing the adhesive, and my eyes STILL swelled shut! The ended up using Presnisone, a steriod, and I cleared up right quick! However, I have a pretty rare, extreme allergy, and if you've had surgery they won't like to use it, because it impedes the healing process.

Good luck.  I will say, it was nice to hear I'm not the only one with tape allergies.  Thanks!!
Caitlyn

[Dr Santos]

Hi,

The best treatment for this type of allergy is to avoid the specific substance. It would help if there was a patch test done to identify the specific component responsible for the allergy. There are hypoallergenic tapes ( cloth, paper or plastic) available. With regards to the rash, if it does not respond to the cream, prescription medication may be indicated. Have this evaluated further for proper management. Direct examination of the rash will help determine what treatment is suited for him.

Take care and keep us posted.