Latex Allergy
Latex allergy is a type of allergy that comes from latex rubber - it is a milky liquid that is extracted from the natural rubber tree [Hevea brasiliensis]. The processed latex are made into various products such as rubber bands, adhesive tapes, diapers, condoms, sanitary pads, balloons, bandages and many others.
Hospitals and clinics are also using latex products in their daily routines. These products include: urinary catheters, gloves, dental dams, root canal products and many others. Resuscitation products and tourniquets have non-latex alternatives.
All these items have latex proteins. People who have reactions to latex develop latex allergy and most of the products that people use are found in hospitals, at home and in industrialized factories. Thin latex rubber such as gloves or condoms, balloons and hard rubber such as tires can inflict latex allergy. Latex allergy can be fatal especially to those who are working with latex rubber or using them on a daily basis.
Some people get latex allergy from foods that contain the same protein as latex rubber. These foods include:
- tomatoes
- bananas
- avocados
- kiwi
- carrots
- chestnuts
- celery
- apples
- potatoes
- melons
Symptoms
- redness of the skin
- itchy skin
- hives
- shock
- coughing
- sneezing
- runny nose
- watery eyes
- rashes
- breathing problem
- tightening of the chest
Treatment
An allergy test will be performed to determine if your allergy is indeed from latex. Remember that most of the symptoms of allergy are similar with most types, so it is important to undergo such test to isolate the real allergen or cause.
Next is to have proper diagnosis. This is essentially done after the test to assess the allergy and the type of treatment. Immediate relief for symptoms of latex allergy may include allergy shots and oral medications.
If you have consistent or persistent latex allergy, you need to identify the source and ensure that you won't have contact with it again. If you are working in the latex industry, chances are you'll get persistent latex allergy and may need to maintain medication to alleviate your condition.
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