Latex Allergy

Overview

This is an allergy to the rubber latex. Latex is made from the rubber tree. It's found in many products, including medical gloves and balloons. When you have this allergy, latex causes your body to react. It can happen when you touch something made of latex. You can also have a reaction if you breathe in tiny particles of latex that are released into the air when latex products are handled. A latex allergy can be very dangerous.

Causes

What causes an allergic reaction? It happens when your immune system overreacts to something that should be harmless. In this case, proteins in the latex are triggering your immune system to attack.

Symptoms

What are the symptoms? If your reaction is mild, you may have things like congestion and itchy eyes. Your skin may itch. You may have a rash or hives. You may have congestion. You may wheeze and cough. If you have a severe reaction, you can have breathing problems and a drop in blood pressure. You may feel dizzy, and you may faint. Your skin may turn a bluish color. A severe reaction is called "anaphylaxis." It's a medical emergency.

Treatment

How do we treat a latex allergy? If you're having anaphylaxis, get medical help right away. If you have less severe symptoms, we can treat them with medications. And, you'll need to make sure you avoid latex in the future. Your doctor will create a plan that's right for you.

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.