Latex Sensitivities
Natural latex rubber is manufactured from the sap of the rubber plant. It
may be found in such products as medical gloves, dental dams, condoms,
diaphragms, first aid tape, bandages, pacifiers, baby nipples, cleaning
gloves, balloons, balls, racquet handles, erasers, masks, elastic fabric,
underwear, diapers, carpet backing, rubber mats and many other products. Not
all products containing latex are detectable to the eye and some products
such as" latex paints" do not contain latex.
Some individuals develop a sensitivity to the proteins in the natural
rubber tree which still remain in the manufactured products. A latex allergy
is seen commonly in individuals with other allergies and who are exposed to
latex usually at work (dental assistants, for example) or by virtue of a
medical condition which exposes them to latex products.
Often the reaction will be seen as a rash on the hands from wearing
latex gloves, but individuals may also react to the powder in the gloves.
Other symptoms of latex allergies include itchy swollen watery eyes,
sneezing, running nose, wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness.
Some individuals may develop life threatening symptoms of anaphylactic shock
such as hives, respiratory difficulties, and low blood pressure, which
require immediate treatment. Often the greater the exposure and the longer
the individual is exposed to latex the more severe the reaction.
The diagnosis is best made by a positive latex prick skin test which is
a relatively safe and easy procedure. Other tests may be employed to rule
out sensitivity to other allergenic materials.
Those who are sensitive should try to avoid contact with all forms of
natural latex and should wear a medic alert bracelet, so that latex is not
used by crews in the event of an emergency. Sources of exposure might be in
dental offices, surgical procedures, anesthetic administration, the use of
condoms or diaphragms, blowing up balloons, vaginal or rectal examinations,
urinary or other catheters, etc. Individuals sensitive to latex should
notify medical or dental offices and hospitals of the problem before
procedures are to be done. If traveling, it is a good idea for sensitive
individuals to carry non-latex gloves in the event that they are needed for
emergencies. Epinephrine for self administration should be carried in the
event of an acute emergency from unexpected exposure. With the advice of
your doctor. Latex particles may be lessened in the air of dental offices
first thing in the morning thus lowering the risk of exposure if early
appointments are scheduled. Some latex sensitive people also have a cross
reaction with certain foods such as bananas, chestnuts, papaya, passion
fruit, peaches, and avocado. This can also be tested by the elimination
process. in no way is this information ment to replace the advice and
care from your doctor, or any other medical professional.
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Disclaimer: In no way is this information meant to replace the advice and care from your
doctor, or any other medical professional. Patients should inform their doctor/allergist/dermatologist if
they are pursuing one of these treatment routes.
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