Latex, also known as rubber or natural latex, is derived from the milky sap
of the rubber tree, Hevea brasiliensis. This tree is found in Africa and
Southeast Asia.
Latex allergy develops after some sensitizing contact with latex. Rubber
gloves are the main source of allergic reactions. A component of the latex
substance itself is an allergen for many people. The latex glove powder residual
is an airborne allergen that causes upper airway allergic reactions in some
people, as well as worsening asthma.
What causes latex allergy?
The exact cause of latex allergy is unknown, but it is thought that repeated
exposure to latex and rubber products may induce symptoms.
Who is affected by latex allergy?
People at increased risk for developing latex allergy include people who
have:
- Children with spina bifida and other congenital urologic
abnormalities
- Persons with frequent occupational latex glove exposure, such
as those working in healthcare, dentisty, animal laboratories and veterinary
medicine
- Workers in the rubber industry
- Individuals with a history of multiple surgical procedures
- Individuals with known food allergies to banana, avocado, kiwi
or chestnuts
- Individuals with atopy (family history of allergies), asthma,
or eczema
In addition, about 5 to 10 percent of health care workers have some form of
allergy to latex.
What are the symptoms of latex allergy?
If you experience a latex allergic reaction, you may have the following
signs and symptoms:
- Skin rash
- Hives
- Eye tearing and irritation
- Wheezing
- Itching
What happens during a latex reaction?
There are three types of latex reactions, with increasing severity of
symptoms:
Irritant contact dermatitis: the least threatening type of latex
reaction, classified as a non-allergenic skin reaction. It results in dryness,
itching, burning, scaling, and lesions of the skin.
Allergic contact dermatitis: a delayed reaction to additives used in
latex processing, which results in the same type of reactions as irritant
contact dermatitis. However, the reaction is more severe, less localized
(spreads to more parts of the body), and lasts longer.
Immediate allergic reaction (latex hypersensitivity): (latex
hypersensitivity) is the most serious reaction to latex. It can appear as
rhinitis with hay fever-like symptoms, conjunctivitis (pink eye), cramps,
hives, or severe itching. Rarely, symptoms may progress to include rapid heart
beat, tremors, chest pain, difficulty breathing, hypotension, anaphylactic
shock, temporary loss of consciousness or potentially, death.
What should I do when a latex-allergy reaction occurs?
Allergic reactions to latex can range from skin redness and itching to more
serious symptoms, including difficulty breathing, hives, or acute (sudden onset)
gastrointestinal problems.