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Latex allergy
Natural rubber latex (NRL) allergy has emerged over the last decade, it is an allergic sensitivity to the proteins in NRL that often worsens with each exposure, which is a process called allergic sensitization. It may be difficult recognize that various symptoms can be caused by latex allergy due the nonspecific nature of symptoms and lack of awareness of this type of allergy. Some people may have been sensitized to latex without yet showing external allergic symptoms which may eventually develop if exposure is sustained (exposure can occur through direct contact with the skin, eyes, nose, mouse, etc. It is also known that some foods have similar protein profiles to those of natural latex rubber. Some of the affected individuals may have serious generalized systemic reactions due to latex exposure

There have not been any major and reliable studies to accurately measure the number of people affected by latex allergy. Some reports claims that almost 15% of health care workers are affected, while others say less. Some reports claim that less than 1% of general population is affected, while others claim over 6%. One fact we do know is that latex allergy has been on the increase for the last decade.

Latex allergy symptoms

Relation between latex allergy and foods

Allergic symptoms range from irritating to life threatening, becoming progressively worse with repeated exposure

  • Skin rashes or itchy skin
  • Nasal congestion
  • sneezing
  • runny nose
  • eye allergy symptoms
  • asthma-like symptoms may appear, including shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, and wheezing.
  • Swelling, especially around the nose, mouth, and throat
  • anaphylactic shock, which can cause death through suffocation or a severe drop in blood pressure
Foods that have similar protein profiles and cross react with latex: Banana, avocado, chestnut, kiwi, tomatoes, apples, carrots, celery, papaya, potato, melons.

It is also claimed that food allergy blood tests have poor indication for fruit intolerance or allergy for people with latex allergy, you may find more information at http://www.users.globalnet.co.uk/~aair/latex.htm

Latex Allergic reactions
  • Type I is the least common type which is an immediate reaction with symptoms such as flushing, itching, swelling, nausea, vomiting and nasal congestion; exposures at even very low levels can trigger allergic reactions.
  • Type IV is the most common type.  It is a delayed hypersensitivity results from exposure to chemicals added to latex during harvesting, processing, or manufacturing.  Symptoms usually begins 24 to 48 hours after contact.

Latex allergy triggers
Latex products are made either by pouring the rubber into molds or by forming a coating in a dipped process, as is done with gloves, balloons and condoms. Dipped, or very soft, rubber products appear to have the highest content of latex proteins and, therefore, have the greatest allergenic potential

Non medical latex allergy triggers

Medical latex allergy triggers
Please note this is just a general and non-comprehensive list of various items that may contain latex (most of the products have latex - free alternatives and you may find more information at http://www.lasg.co.uk/latexallergy/LatexListSept07.pdf)
 A few examples of medical equipment that may contain natural latex proteins :
Blood pressure cuffs, Stethoscopes, Disposable gloves, Oral and nasal airways, Endotracheal tubes, Tourniquets , Intravenous tubing, Syringes, Electrode pads, Anesthesia masks, Catheters, Wound drains, Injection ports, Rubber tops of multidose vials, Respirators , Gloves, Surgical masks, Goggles

You may find more information about latex in medical equipment at http://www.latexallergy.ndo.co.uk
  • Environment : rubber tire particles released by vehicles at busy roads, roadworks (when asphalt is being used)
  • Office supplies : adhesives, glue pens, comfort grips on scissors, rubber bands, rubber stamps, electrical cords, mousepads, wrist rests, calculators or remote controls with rubber keys or switches
  • Home environment :  balloons, carpet backing, foam pillows, condoms, face masks, headphones, gardening tools, basketballs, footballs, vacuum hoses & attachments, rubber bath mats, comfort grips on toothbrushes.
  • Clothing : Shoe soles , athletic shoes, slippers, elastic in clothing (e.g. underwear, pajamas, swimsuits, etc)
  • Etc : sports equipment, food preparation with latex gloves in restaurants, Motorcycle and bicycle handgrips, etc.

Latex allergy treatment
Most effective strategy in the treatment of latex allergy is complete avoidance, other tips include :
  • Latex proteins are water soluble, for example health care workers may sensitise themselves after removing gloves and touching their mouths or eyes with unwashed hands.
  • Latex allergy sufferers should avoid products that may contain latex as well as "latex-prone" areas (such as roadworks when asphalt is being used)
  • Diet adjustment may be considered
  • If you have latex allergy, it is important to wear a special necklace or bracelet to inform medical staff about this condition and carry an emergency epinephrine kit at all times.

 





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