Latex Allergy: Symptoms and Treatment

Latex is a natural product made from a light milky fluid extracted from the rubber tree. That fluid is usually changed during the production process and made into a latex mixture. Ever since AIDS became a major health issue, healthcare workers have worn latex gloves as a means of protection from the disease, and (quite naturally) other blood born illnesses.

However, the latex, or the mixture (or both) can cause allergic reaction in some people, due to the presence of certain proteins. That reaction can manifest in one of two ways. The first is known as a “delayed hypersensitivity.” In this form, a rash usually forms at the site of contact with the skin, and it can be very severe. It can also cause irritation to the nasal passages, which in many ways mimics hay fever (allergic rhinitis). Of course, it is nothing when compared to the “immediate reaction,” also known as anaphylaxis, or anaphylactic shock. With that, massive amounts of histamine are pumped into the body causing swelling and vasodilatation. This can be life threatening. If the swelling extends to the throat, the airways can close up; and the dilation of the blood vessels can cause the patient’s blood pressure to crash, resulting in shock!

The best way to deal with latex allergies is to just avoid the material entirely. A number of companies now make gloves out of a latex free synthetic, thus enabling people to minimize the chances of coming into contact with it. In addition, a very simple skin test can be carried out to detect if a person suffers from the “delayed hypersensitivity” reaction. A standard patch test tests for any reaction to latex, its preservatives and its accelerators. Of course, care must be exercised to be sure the person does not have the immediate reaction.

In the event contact does occur, treatment for the mild reaction is composed of antihistamines, usually in a topical cream or pill form. With the anaphylaxis, steroids can reduce the swelling, or a shot of adrenaline can do it. Epinephrine (a synthetic form of adrenaline) is often prescribed by a physician. These days, many people who suffer from a severe allergy to latex will carry an EpiPen with them at all times. It is quite the little device. About the size of a pen (as it name implies!), it allows a person to give themselves a precise dose of the drug when they suffer a severe reaction.