Latex Allergy
Latex is the sap from the rubber tree, hevea brasiliensis. Latex, or natural rubber latex (NRL), is found in many every day rubber products. Latex allergy is caused by proteins found in natural rubber latex.
Latex allergy is different to allergic contact dermatitis which we have discussed elsewhere, as latex allergy causes an immediate (or Type 1) allergy, which is potentially life threatening.
Signs and symptoms of latex allergy:
- An itchy, red rash within minutes of contacting latex
- Itchy, red skin and/or eyes
- Runny nose, sneezing and sometimes asthma
- Burning, stinging, itching, tingling and swelling from latex contact on ‘mucous membranes’ lining internal surfaces, like the mouth (from blowing up balloons or gloves worn by dentists), or the genitals (from condoms)
Fortunately very few people have a severe reaction to latex, which is called anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis causes swelling, difficulty breathing, collapse and occasionally even death. An ‘Epipen’ which is a special injectable adrenaline syringe, is used in an emergency to treat anaphylaxis. For more information on anaphylaxis visit the Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy website www.allergy.org.au
Latex gloves
Latex gloves are a frequent cause of latex allergy. Allergy to latex gloves usually causes a localized reaction such as on the hands or where the gloved hands touch the body, such as the face. Sometimes people can develop breathing problems as well.
Allergy to latex gloves is most common amongst healthcare workers. However, latex gloves are also commonly used by food handlers and hairdressers, despite more suitable varieties being available. If you are allergic to latex, be aware that some food handlers wear latex gloves for food preparation. This means there is the risk that latex proteins from the glove may be transferred to the food, therefore increasing the risk of an allergic reaction when the food is eaten.
Latex products
In addition to latex gloves causing latex allergy, there are many other medical and household products that may contain latex. These may include:
| Gloves | Condoms |
| Rubber bands | Some computer mouse pads |
| Balloons | Panty hose or elastic in underwear |
| Goggles | Rubber electrical cords on appliances |
| Rubber innersoles | Rubber boots or rain coats |
| Some medical products such as airway masks, catheters and dressings | Items with rubber handles such as tooth brushes, golf clubs, tennis racquets |
Risk factors for latex allergy
- A history of asthma, eczema or hay fever (called atopy)
- Damaged skin i.e. dry and cracked skin
- Working in the healthcare industry and frequent wearing of latex gloves
- Using powdered latex gloves. Powder facilitates the transfer of the latex allergen to the skin
- Long term exposure to latex, especially individuals who have undergone surgery several times
Some people with latex allergy can also be allergic to some fruits, as some foods have similar proteins to latex. These include:
- Banana
- Avocado
- Kiwi fruit
- Melon
Management of latex allergy:
- Unfortunately there is no cure for latex allergy, so if you are allergic to latex, it is important to avoid contact with latex products at work and home.
- If you are not sure whether a product contains latex, it is best to contact the product manufacturer.
- People with latex allergy should wear a Medic Alert bracelet, as all healthcare facilities use latex products, and you may not be able to tell them that you are allergic to latex.
- Remember to tell your dentist also, as dentists commonly wear latex gloves.
| Remember… if you are a healthcare worker, and are allergic to latex, there are other suitable glove varieties available, such as nitrile and neoprene. Vinyl gloves are not suitable for use by healthcare workers as they do not protect against bodily fluids. |