What is latex allergy?

Latex is a milky sap produced by the rubber tree. Valued for its elasticity, it is used to make a variety of things, including gloves, balloons, condoms, and elastic bands.

Some people are allergic to one of the proteins found in latex, specifically one that gives latex its elasticity. This means that stretchier objects such as balloons, condoms or latex gloves are more likely to provoke an allergic reaction than, for example, a tyre.

What are the symptoms of a latex allergy?

There can be two types of latex allergy – immediate reactions (usually happen within a few minutes of exposure to latex) or delayed ones (that happen many hours, oftentimes a couple of days, later). Most individuals only suffer one or other type of latex allergy, with relatively few likely to suffer from both types.

Immediate reactions:

Symptoms, occurring rapidly after pretty much every contact, may include:

• Itching
• Urticaria (hives)
• Swelling (angioedema)
• Runny nose/sneezing
• Wheezing or difficulty breathing

Some individuals may even experience a severe reaction and anaphylaxis.

Delayed reactions:

Symptoms can occur a day or two after exposure and may include:

• An itchy, red eczematous rash that can last several days
• Swelling, oozing, weeping, and blistering may also become apparent
• Contact dermatitis

Cross-reactivity between latex and food

People who suffer from immediate-type latex allergy may also notice symptoms (usually fairly mild ‘oral allergy’ type – e.g. itchy mouth, sometimes mild swelling) with certain foods (e.g. banana, kiwi, avocado, melon, plums etc)

What causes latex allergy?

Anyone can develop an allergy to latex. However, certain groups of people seem to be at a higher risk of developing one than others, for example:

• People who are frequently exposed to latex, e.g. at work
• People who have needed multiple surgical operations (e.g. those with spina bifida)
• People with bladder problems requiring frequent catheterisation

What to do if you suspect you may have a latex allergy

• It may be helpful to keep a diary to record the timing of contacts and subsequent symptoms as well as what those symptoms are
• Discuss your symptoms with a healthcare professional (e.g. your GP)
• If the symptoms are mainly delayed type, then a referral to a dermatologist may be indicated (dermatologists can do patch tests, which may help confirm delayed type hypersensitivity)
• If the symptoms are mainly immediate type, then you may benefit from being seen by an allergist who, after taking a detailed history, may be able to confirm your allergy either by skin prick or specific blood tests as well as provide advice on how to reduce risk of exposure and which rescue medicines you should carry with you

Can you treat a latex allergy?

Currently, there is no known cure for a latex allergy. The best course of action is to avoid contact with products containing latex. Your medical record must reflect any allergies you have and that you inform your doctors of your allergy before any treatment, so that they know not to use any medical equipment containing latex.

Patients with a severe latex allergy may be advised by their doctor to carry a syringe loaded with epinephrine at all times, which can combat anaphylaxis in the event of an allergic reaction to latex.