Latex allergy

Latex allergy can cause anaphylaxis

Latex allergy is a reaction to certain proteins found in natural rubber latex. This natural latex is a milky fluid found in rubber trees. When our immune system recognizes natural latex as a harmful substance then it causes an allergic reaction.

Common Latex containing products

Common product include but not limited to

Dishwashing gloves
Balloons
Rubber toys
Bottle nipples and pacifiers
Rubber household gloves
Intravenous tubing
Condoms
Syringes
Surgical gloves & masks
Diaphragms
Blood pressure cuffs
Stethoscopes
Swim goggles
Syringes

Symptoms of Latex allergy

Latex can cause mild to moderate symptoms as well as anaphylaxis. Latex paints do not contain any natural rubber latex protein.

Itching
Swollen lips
Sneezing or Runny nose
Skin rash
Hives

Itchy, watery eyes
Cough
Respiratory difficulty
Wheezing and chest tightness

Anaphylaxis

Signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis include:

Difficulty breathing
Hives or swelling
Nausea and vomiting
Wheezing
Drop in blood pressure
Dizziness
Loss of consciousness
Confusion
Rapid or weak pulse

Latex allergy can occur in these ways:

Direct contact.The most common cause.
Here the latex particle when airborne, come in contact with the human body.

Prevention of Latex allergy

Avoid latex products.
Wear non latex gloves and mask
When you use a product check the labels to know whether it is latex free.
Consult with an allergist and make your action plan ready.

Treatment

There is no cure for latex allergy.

People with severe reactions must avoid latex.

For mild to moderate allergic reaction – over-the-counter or prescription antihistamines.

For anaphylaxis- Injector adrenaline/ epinephrine. If you already had anaphylaxis, you have to carry adrenaline autoinjector all the time.

Latex-Food Syndrome or Latex-Fruit Allergy.

Latex-Food Syndrome or Latex-Fruit Allergy is an allergic reaction where certain nuts and fruits cause an allergic reaction in a patient of latex allergy. This occurs due to the similarity in the protein found in this fruits and natural rubber latex. Nuts and fruits that can cause this reaction include: