Latex Allergy
What is it?
Latex allergy is an abnormally high sensitivity to a
protein in rubber, which causes a physical reaction. A
latex allergy can be life threatening.
Who gets it?
Anyone can develop a latex allergy. However, people who
have or have had frequent surgeries are at higher risk
because they are exposed to latex so frequently.
What causes it?
An allergic reaction occurs when the immune system
produces antibodies and other disease fighting cells in
response to an allergen, in this case latex. The
antibodies release chemicals that actually injure the
surrounding cells and cause the physical symptoms of an
allergic reaction. Certain antibodies release histamines,
which affect the skin, mucous membrane, mucous gland, and
smooth muscle cells. Life-threatening allergic reactions
can occur without any previous symptoms of allergy. The
type of thin, highly stretchy rubber found in gloves,
rubber bands, condoms, balloons, and pacifiers, to name a
few, are the most common sources of latex allergy. Latex
is especially common in medical and dental supplies, such
as medical gloves, products used for root canals, and
certain medical equipment. Thin latex gloves are often
coated with cornstarch to make it easier to get the gloves
on and off. When the gloves are removed, however, rubber
particles that attach to the cornstarch may become
airborne, which will also cause an allergic reaction in
those who have a latex sensitivity.
What are the symptoms?
Mild latex allergy causes symptoms including sneezing,
runny nose, coughing, and watery, itchy eyes. Some people
develop hives, a rash, or sores on the area in contact
with the latex, most commonly the hands. In more severe
cases, the patient experiences a dangerous condition
called anaphylaxis. Symptoms include sudden anxiety and
weakness, difficulty breathing, tightness in the chest,
very low blood pressure, loss of consciousness, and shock.
Anaphylactic shock can occur within minutes and result in
death. A patient in anaphylactic shock needs immediate
medical treatment.
How is it diagnosed?
Latex allergy is diagnosed according to a pattern of
symptoms. Your doctor will take a complete medical history
and perform some tests to determine your exact type of
allergy. This type of testing should only be done by a
specialist, called an allergist.
What is the treatment?
Latex allergy is treated by avoiding all contact with
latex products. Healthcare workers should wear non-latex
gloves. Powder-free latex gloves will help prevent
reactions in others who may breathe the airborne rubber
particles. Anaphylactic shock is treated with an injection
of epinephrine, a hormone that stimulates the heart and
relaxes the airways. Those who are known to have severe
latex allergies should carry a self-injection kit for
emergency treatment.
Self-care tips
If you have known latex allergies, make sure you wear a
Medic-Alert bracelet so medical personnel are aware of
your condition in case you need emergency treatment. Latex
is found in many things that you come into contact with
everyday. Learn what types of products contain latex so
you know to avoid them. Sometimes people with latex
allergies also have allergies to certain foods. Your
doctor can help you determine whether there are certain
foods that you should avoid.
This information has been designed as a comprehensive and quick reference
guide written by our health care reviewers. The health information written
by our authors is intended to be a supplement to the care provided by your
physician. It is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for
professional medical advice.
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