What is latex allergy?
Allergic reactions to latex (natural rubber) products can occur when items containing latex touch the skin, the mucous membranes (the mouth, genitals, bladder or rectum), or contact the internal organs or bloodstream (especially during surgery). Reactions can also happen when people breathe or touch the powder from inside latex gloves or balloons, or eat food that has been handled by latex gloves. These allergic responses can include:
* red, watery eyes
* wheezing
* hives, rash
* swelling, difficulty breathing
* vomiting, anaphylactic shock
What is latex ?
Latex is a natural product from the Hevea brasiliensis tree. Natural latex rubber is produced when chemicals to increase durability, elasticity, and strength are added to the latex. Natural latex rubber may be an ingredient of many products commonly used in the healthcare environment, in the community, and in the home, including: exam gloves, Koosh balls, balloons, rubber bands, pacifiers, urinary catheters,IV tubing ports, erasers,condoms, adhesive tapes, elastic bandages, tires, diaper elastic, clothing, dental dams,bottle nipples.
There are alternative, non-latex products that can be substituted for most latex items. Usually, these alternatives are made of plastic, mylar, vinyl, silicone or synthetic rubber.
What can be done about latex allergy?
If a person is suspected of having had a reaction of any kind to a latex product, or if there has been an unexplained allergic reaction during an operation, a dental or medical exam, please inform healthcare providers.
For individuals who are sensitive to latex products, we recommend:
* Avoiding all latex products. Use other kinds of gloves, pacifiers, tape, balloons etc.
* Talking with your healthcare provider about the possible need for