Latex Allergy Symptoms And Diagnosis
Common latex allergy symptoms can range from minor to life-threatening. These symptoms may include:
- Rash, inflammation, hives, or itching on the skin
- Mild respiratory reaction: coughing, sneezing, or a runny nose
- Severe respiratory reaction: shortness of breath, swelling of the throat, or wheezing
- Anaphylaxis, a life-threatening allergic reaction requiring immediate medical attention
Symptoms often occur within minutes after contact with the allergen. Most symptoms occur after direct contact with latex. In other cases, inhaling latex proteins in the air can cause asthmatic reactions in latex allergy sufferers.
Can You Eat At Restaurants With A Latex Allergy
For individuals with latex allergy, the challenge at restaurants is threefold:
- kitchen staff may use latex gloves while preparing food
- some foods have cross react with latex proteins
- restaurants may have latex balloons on display for parties or in banquet rooms
What can you do to safely navigate restaurants with a latex allergy?
First, share your latex allergy diagnosis with the hostess or manager. Find out if the kitchen staff uses latex gloves during any aspect of food preparation. If so, emphasize the severity of your allergy and the potential consequences if you are exposed you want to grab their attention.
Check out websites and menus of any restaurant you plan to visit. Many restaurants have already adopted a non-latex policy. This list includes Burger King, Quiznos, Dennys, Red Lobster, Outback Steakhouse, Red Robin, Arbys, Subway, Bahama Breeze, Dominos Pizza and Cracker Barrel Old Country Store. Disney World and Disneyland also have adopted a non-latex policy.
Higher risk situations are establishments with buffets , pre-made foods and eateries that frequently use banana, kiwi or avocado. Look for restaurants that have food allergy training for employees.
Notify the hostess and server of your latex allergy and review the menu for dishes that are unsafe. Bring a chef card with details of your allergy that the server can hand to the chef. By submitting this card, you dont have to rely solely on verbal communication passing from server to chef.
What Foods Are Related To Latex
People with latex allergies may also develop allergic reactions to some fruits and vegetables. About half of people with a latex allergy may develop allergy symptoms from avocado, banana or kiwi.
This happens due to cross reactivity. Some of the proteins in natural rubber latex are similar to those found in cross-reactive fruits and vegetables.
At the same time, people with food allergies to certain fruits and vegetables may have allergic reactions to latex. This may occur in approximately 10% of food allergic individuals.
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What Are Important Things To Know About Latex Allergy And Vaccines
Some vaccine packaging contains latex, posing a threat to people who have a latex allergy. There is concern that latex proteins may be mixed with the medication through packaging and storage of the vaccine vial, and also through puncturing the vial stopper to draw up the vaccine. The same concern exists with vaccines that are stored in syringes with latex in the plungers.
While the extent of the risk is unknown, it is difficult to be sure how much latex may be present in a vaccine package. Since current recommendations are based on limited data, patients should talk with their allergists to determine the best approach to obtaining a needed vaccine.
Current strategies can include:
- Popping the top prevents the puncturing of a latex stopper for safer administration. However, there is still a possibility that latex allergic proteins contaminated the medicine during the period of storage.
- The one stick rule is based on the assumption that a single stick through the vial seal minimizes latex allergen distribution into the medication, while maintaining a closed system that limits potential for contamination.
- Post-vaccination observation by a qualified individual for a period of at least 15 minutes, and up to two hours.
Natural Allergy Relief Options
What helps relieve allergies fast? Watching what you eat, getting plenty of fresh air and drinking enough water are some of the natural remedies that can relieve allergies by improving functions of the immune system.
It may take several weeks for your symptoms to subside, but they are likely to be better kept under control when you tackle the root causes. Here are nine ways to get natural allergy relief.
1. Eat an Anti-Inflammatory, Alkaline Diet
First and foremost, start eating an anti-inflammatory diet to reduce your risk for allergies and many other health problems. Caring for your body with nutrient-dense foods gives your immune system the ability to repair itself, bringing it back into balance so it can fight off common allergies in your environment.
Here are some of the best foods and ingredients to incorporate into your diet to help you beat allergies:
Although its not abundant in many foods, vitamin D is also important for immune function and may help manage allergy symptoms. In fact, certain studies have shown that children who live farther from the equator are more likely to develop allergies and suffer higher rates of hospital admissions due to allergic reactions.
You can get enough vitamin D by spending about 15 minutes in the sun most days without sunscreen and by eating foods like whole milk and some mushrooms for natural allergy relief.
2. Local Raw Honey
3. Apple Cider Vinegar
4. Quercetin
5. Neti Pot
6. Stinging Nettle
8. Probiotics
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Treatment For A Latex Allergy
Theres no cure for latex allergies, so experts recommend avoiding coming into contact with latex. Keep in mind that products labeled as hypoallergenic could still contain latex.
Youll also need to make sure you arent exposed to latex in a medical setting. It is critical that latex allergy is placed in a patients medical record and that physicians, dentists and other healthcare workers are informed so that non-latex products are used, Schwartz said.
For mild skin reactions to latex, anti-inflammatory drugs, such as NSAIDs like ibuprofen or aspirin, may provide some relief, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology.
If you have the type of latex allergy that can cause anaphylaxis, epinephrine can treat an allergic reaction. The AAFA recommends that you always have two epinephrine auto-injectors on hand. You should also make sure people who spend a lot of time with you know how to use them and can identify when youre having an allergic reaction to latex.
CORRECTION : A previous version of this article misattributed the information about anti-inflammatory drugs possibly providing some relief for mild cases of latex allergies to the AAFA. The correct attribution is the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology.
Causes Of A Latex Allergy
Latex allergies are caused when your immune system reacts as though latex is a harmful substance, according to the AAFA. Latex allergies arent very common. They affect less than 1% of people in the U.S., but people who are exposed to latex frequently are more likely to develop allergies.
Latex is found in gloves and in a lot of medical products, so healthcare workers and hair stylists who regularly use latex gloves and other latex products have higher-than-average rates of latex allergy. Children who need multiple surgeries are also more likely to develop latex allergies.
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Can A Latex Allergy Be Treated
There is no cure for latex allergy. If you are allergic to latex, you should:
- Avoid products that contain latex.
- Tell providers, caregivers, teachers and friends that theyâre allergic.
- Avoid areas where latex may be in the air, such as a hospital room where providers use latex gloves.
- Talk to your healthcare provider about wearing a medical alert bracelet. In a medical emergency, the bracelet lets others know youâre allergic to latex.
- If an IgE-mediated allergic reaction to latex is diagnosed, you should carry injectable epinephrine with you. Show caregivers, friends and family members how to give you an injection if youâre having a reaction and canât inject yourself.
How Many People Suffer From A Latex Allergy
According to the American Latex Allergy Association, 8-17% of healthcare workers and 68% of children with spina bifida and people undergoing multiple surgeries are suffer from a Latex allergy. That totals less than 1% of the general public in the US. However, that 1% equals about 3 million people. That is a pretty significant amount of people to suffer with this allergy and yet nothing has been done nationwide. Most Latex allergy cases go unreported. These statistics are not current there are no current studies published. Current statistics would show more people suffering from this allergy. Most people who have a Latex allergy often go undiagnosed.
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Causes Of Latex Allergy
As mentioned earlier, our immune system identifies some proteins in latex as something harmful and dangerous. This triggers antibodies to fight it off, causing an allergic reaction. A range of allergy signs and symptoms will then start to manifest. It is important to note that the more times you are exposed to latex, the more strongly your immune system will likely respond.
Latex allergy can occur either through direct contact or inhalation. The most common cause of latex allergy involves touching products that contain natural rubber latex or having direct contact with latex-containing products. On the other hand, inhalation involves breathing in latex products when they become airborne, triggering an allergic reaction.
Use Of An Allergy Bracelet
Your allergist might also suggest you wear an allergy bracelet indicating that you have a latex allergy. If you were ever rendered unconscious or unable to respond because of your latex allergy, the medical bracelet would tell those around you what your allergy is. Someone could then contact emergency services to get you the help you need promptly.
If youre in anaphylactic shock, which can happen if your latex allergy is serious, then you need assistance immediately to save your life. You dont want to leave the house without your allergy bracelet then.
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What Is Latex Allergy
Latex allergy is a reaction to certain proteins in latex rubber. The amount of latex exposure needed to produce sensitization or an allergic reaction is unknown. Increasing the exposure to latex proteins increases the risk of developing allergic symptoms. In sensitized persons, symptoms usually begin within minutes of exposure but they can occur hours later and can be quite varied. Mild reactions to latex involve skin redness, rash, hives, or itching. More severe reactions may involve respiratory symptoms such as runny nose, sneezing, itchy eyes, scratchy throat, and asthma . Rarely, shock may occur however, a life-threatening reaction is seldom the first sign of latex allergy.
Diagnosing A Latex Allergy
Rashes and allergic reactions could be caused by exposure to lots of different substances. To diagnose a latex allergy, your doctor will ask about your history and examine you. If a latex allergy seems likely, a sample of your blood can be tested at a lab.
Repeated contact with latex can cause your reactions to be more severe, so its important to be diagnosed if you think you might be allergic to latex.
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Do You Have An Allergy To Latex Here’s How It May Affect Your Skin
If you have a latex allergy, youre allergic to a protein found in the sap of the Brazilian rubber tree. That might sound easy to avoid, but that sap is used to make rubber, and its found in lots of common products, including balloons, rubber bands, condoms, gloves and bandages.
A latex allergy reaction can be triggered by coming into contact with items that contain latex, or by breathing in latex fibers, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America .
How Can You Be Exposed To Latex
You can get exposed to latex:
- Through the skin, such as when you wear latex gloves
- Through mucous membranes, such as the eyes, mouth, , and rectum
- Through inhalation. Rubber gloves can contain cornstarch powder, which absorbs the latex and can become airborne when the gloves are removed.
- Through the blood. This can happen when some medical devices containing rubber are used.
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How Is A Latex Allergy Diagnosed
Your healthcare provider will examine you and ask about your symptoms and exposure to latex. You should share information about other allergies you have, including reactions to foods. If you have a family history of allergies, tell your provider.
Your provider may order a blood test to check if youâre allergic to latex. Providers also use a skin prick test to diagnose a latex allergy.
What Products Contain Natural Rubber Latex
Latex is a common component of many medical and dental supplies. These include disposable gloves, dental dams, airway and intravenous tubing, syringes, stethoscopes, catheters, dressings and bandages. Latex also is found in many consumer products. These include condoms, handbags, balloons, athletic shoes, tires, tools, underwear leg and waistbands, rubber toys, baby bottles, nipples and pacifiers.
I think my allergist kept me alive. I didnt think I would live.
Gerri, who had a life-threatening reaction to latex
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What Is Natural Rubber Latex
Natural rubber latex comes from the sap of the rubber tree, Hevea brasiliensis, found in Africa and Southeast Asia. Allergic reactions to products made with latex develop in persons who become allergic to proteins contained in natural rubber latex. Natural rubber latex should not be confused with synthetic rubber made from chemicals. Synthetic rubber products, including latex house paints, are not made with natural latex and do not trigger allergic reactions in people who are allergic to products made with natural rubber latex.
How Do You Treat A Latex Allergy Reaction
Latex allergy treatment depends on the type of reaction that is present a mild sensitivity or a life-threatening allergic reaction, or anaphylaxis.
- Anaphylaxis: Epinephrine, a medication given by injection that works quickly to raise blood pressure and reduce swelling in the body, is the first-line treatment for severe allergic reactions. Its available in an easy-to-use epinephrine auto-injector a prefilled syringe with a retractable needle. Epinephrine should be administered without delay when symptoms appear.
- Mild Sensitivity: If a mild sensitivity is present and there is only a local reaction the skin is itchy and red at the site where latex was touched your doctor may suggest using an antihistamine or using 1% hydrocortisone cream.
NOTE: Treatments mentioned here are for informational purposes only. If you have a latex allergy and require treatment, you should see a board-certified allergist to determine the best treatment for you.
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Various Test To Identify Latex Allergy
Routine testing of all patients or workers is expensive. Testing should also be made available to those individuals who do not qualify as high risk, but who ask to be tested.
Patch testing
Patch tests are used to differentiate irritant contact dermatitis from allergic contact dermatitis . The test is usually read at 2 and 3 days in order to identify type IV hypersensitivity reactions, which normally peak in intensity at 48 to 72 hours after exposure. Irritant contact dermatitis can be distinguished from allergic contact dermatitis by the timing of onset and duration of the skin reaction.
Skin prick testing
Use tests or pulmonary inhalation tests
Use tests with latex gloves or pulmonary inhalation tests has been suggested as decisive step to judge whether a clinically relevant NAL allergy exists. The test is difficult to standardize but that are sensitive, helpful diagnostic method.
A use test is performed on wet hands using a non-latex glove as a control. The NRL glove is first exposed to only one finger for 15 minutes if this preliminary test is negative, the whole hand is exposed for an additional 15 minutes. The test frequently produces contact urticaria if performed with highly allergenic gloves, and has caused as anaphylactic reaction in a patient with severe hand eczema. To avoid false positive results in milk-allergic subjects, the Use test should be performed with a glove brand without casein.
In vitro immunoassays
Treating A Latex Allergy
There is no cure for a latex allergy, so the best treatment is avoidance. For mild reactions, your doctor may prescribe antihistamines to treat your symptoms. If you have a severe allergy to latex, injectable epinephrine can be used to prevent anaphylaxis.
Latex is so common in the modern world, it may be difficult to completely avoid exposure. Still, there are some things you can do to reduce contact. These include:
- using non-latex gloves
- telling daycare and healthcare providers about any latex allergies
- wearing a medical ID bracelet detailing any allergies
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How Do You Treat Manage And Live With Latex Allergy
There is no cure for latex allergy, so the only way to prevent a reaction is to avoid all contact with latex-containing products. Because millions of everyday products contain latex and latex is commonly used in healthcare settings, total avoidance can be difficult. This means, people living with latex allergy must take extra steps to stay safe.
Wearing a MedicAlert ID for latex allergy can play an important role in helping you manage your latex allergy and stay safe. Add a protection plan, and your MedicAlert ID becomes even more valuable to your health and safety.
If a reaction occurs, a MedicAlert ID can let doctors know what caused it so that the proper treatments can be administered. Mild to moderate reactions may be treated with antihistamines, corticosteroid medicines, calamine lotion or 1% hydrocortisone.
Common antihistamines include:
Although antihistamines and corticosteroids are strong medicines, severe reactions require even stronger treatments. If you have a severe reaction to latex, such as anaphylaxis, you may need an epinephrine injection and you will have to carry a prescription epinephrine injection with you at all times.
