Prevent Allergic Reactions to Latex: Avoid latex. Some disposable diapers 8. WebMD shows you how to latex-proof your life. An anaphylactic (an-uh-fuh-LAK-tik) reaction develops immediately after latex exposure in highly sensitive people, but it rarely happens the first time you're exposed. Health care workers with known latex allergy must stop using latex gloves and use synthetic latex or non-latex substitutes. What are other possible causes for my symptoms or condition? If you have an anaphylactic reaction, you will need to go to the emergency room for an immediate injection of adrenaline (epinephrine). Although there is no cure when it comes to treating a latex allergy, certain medicines may be used to reduce its symptoms. You're likely to start by seeing your family doctor or a general practitioner. The only way to prevent an allergic reaction to latex is by avoiding products which contain latex. Data sources include IBM Watson Micromedex (updated 2 Nov 2020), Cerner Multum™ (updated 2 Nov 2020), ASHP (updated 23 Oct 2020) and others. However, you may be referred to a doctor who specializes in allergies (allergist). Blood pressure cuffs 16. Certain people are at greater risk of developing a latex allergy: Certain fruits contain the same allergens found in latex. Diaphragms 12. Thank you, {{form.email}}, for signing up. If you have less severe reactions after exposure to latex, talk to your doctor. Your reaction can become worse with each additional latex exposure. Your doctor will examine your skin and ask questions about your symptoms and medical history. What are the alternatives to the primary approach that you're suggesting? What is likely causing my symptoms or condition? If you're allergic to latex, you develop a raised bump. Although medications are available to reduce the symptoms of latex allergy, there is no cure. Do you have allergies, such as hay fever or allergies to certain foods? All rights reserved. Swim goggles 13. If you had symptoms after wearing latex gloves, how long did it take for the symptoms to develop. Some types of carpeting 3. Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. The most serious allergic reaction to latex is anaphylaxis, which can be deadly. Drugs.com provides accurate and independent information on more than 24,000 prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines and natural products. Rubber bands 9. Preparing a list of questions before your appointment will help you make the most of your time with your doctor. Many common products contain latex, but you can usually find a suitable option. Products and Food to Avoid if You are Allergic to Latex. To reduce cumulative exposure to latex, it is important to use nonpowdered, low-protein latex or nonlatex gloves; some newer latex glove products have very low levels of solubilized and aerosol proteins. Co-workers should not use powdered latex gloves. Signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis include: Seek emergency medical care if you are having or think you're having an anaphylactic reaction. Questions your doctor is likely to ask include: If you suspect you have a latex allergy, try to avoid contact with anything that contains latex. The more times you are exposed to latex, the more strongly your immune system is likely to respond. Dishwashing gloves 2. Once you have a reaction to latex, treatment depends on the type and severity of your reaction. Stethoscopes 17. They include: If you're allergic to latex, you have a greater chance of also being allergic to these foods. Rubber toys 5. A reaction depends on how sensitive you are to latex and the amount of latex you touch or inhale. Your doctor will also ask questions to rule out other reasons for your symptoms. Terms of use. A skin test can help determine if your skin reacts to the latex protein. The doctor will use a tiny needle to place a small amount of latex below the surface of the skin on your forearm or back. Condoms 11. Products containing man-made (synthetic) latex, such as latex paint, are unlikely to cause a reaction. This is called sensitization. Understanding latex allergy and knowing common sources of latex can help you prevent allergic reactions. Medically reviewed by Corinne Savides Happel, MD, Verywell Health uses cookies to provide you with a great user experience. Motorcycle and bicycle handgrips 15. Blood tests also may be done to check for latex sensitivity. Is there a history of allergies in your family? The only way to prevent a latex allergic reaction is to avoid products that contain latex. If you've had a severe allergic reaction to latex, you may need to carry injectable epinephrine with you at all times. For less severe reactions, your doctor may prescribe antihistamines or corticosteroids, which you can take after exposure to latex to control your reaction and help relieve discomfort. © 1998-2019 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research (MFMER). If possible, see your doctor when you're reacting, which will aid in diagnosis. Hot water bottles 6. Select one or more newsletters to continue. Even HCWs may be poorly informed about latex allergy risk factors, clinical syndromes, and … If you do happen to develop an allergic reaction and are suffering, you might need an immediate injection of adrenaline. Your doctor can determine if you have a latex allergy or if you're at risk of developing a latex allergy. You can also have symptoms if you breathe in latex particles that are released into the air when someone removes latex gloves. However, because other medical products may contain latex or rubber, be sure to tell doctors, nurses, dentists and other health care workers about your allergy before all exams or procedures. It's possible to have other skin reactions when using latex. Prevent an allergic reaction to latex by avoiding these products: Many health care facilities use nonlatex gloves. Prevent an allergic reaction to latex by avoiding these products: 1. By using Verywell Health, you accept our, Latex Food Syndrome Triggers and Treatment, Safety of Cephalosporins If Allergic to Penicillin, Sulfa Allergy: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment, Symptoms and Treatments for Latex Allergies, Novocaine Adverse Reactions and Allergies, Penicillin, Amoxicillin and Cephalosporin Allergy: What to Know, Steroid Allergy and Types of Allergic Reaction, Food Allergies Can Make You Allergic to Some Vaccines, Overview of the Most Common Drug Allergies. Intravenous tubing 18. If you have a latex allergy, your body mistakes latex for a harmful substance. The only treatment for latex allergy is to prevent any contact with latex products. The next time you're exposed to latex, these antibodies tell your immune system to release histamine and other chemicals into your bloodstream, producing a range of allergy signs and symptoms. Racket handles 14. Latex allergy symptoms range from mild to severe.