What is latex allergy?

Latex Allergy

What is a latex allergy?

A latex allergy is an allergic reaction that happens after repeated contact with latex, such as latex gloves. It affects people who are often exposed to rubber products.

What are the symptoms of a latex allergy?

Allergic reactions to latex can vary from mild to life-threatening. Or they may progress from a mild reaction to a more severe one. Symptoms may include:

  • Skin reactions such as contact dermatitis, hives, or widespread itching.
  • Respiratory reactions.
    • With a mild reaction, a person may sneeze, cough, or have a runny nose.
    • With a severe reaction, a person may have shortness of breath from swelling of the throat (angioedema). Or the person may have severe wheezing (allergic asthma).
  • Life-threatening allergic reactions (anaphylaxis).

How is a latex allergy diagnosed?

A latex allergy is diagnosed with a physical exam and other tests. You will be asked about your symptoms and any recent exposure to latex. The doctor may also ask a lot of questions about your past health. Tests may include:

  • A blood test. This can detect latex antibodies.
  • Skin tests. These can detect an allergic reaction to latex exposure.

Skin tests should always be done by doctors who are experienced and equipped to respond to a severe reaction.

How is a latex allergy treated?

Avoiding latex is the best treatment. Severe reactions may need to be treated in a hospital. If you've had a severe reaction to latex before, carry an epinephrine shot. Be sure you know how to give yourself the shot. Take a nondrowsy antihistamine, such as loratadine (Claritin), to help treat mild symptoms.

How can you care for your child who has a latex allergy?

  • Have your child avoid products that contain latex. These products may include:
    • Diapers.
    • Pacifiers and baby bottle nipples.
    • Balloons and rubber toys.
    • Rubber bands.
    • Computer mouse pads.
    • Medical items, such as gloves, drains, tourniquets, urinary catheters, wraps, and adhesives used for bandages and tapes.
  • Always tell your health care providers that your child has a latex allergy.
  • Ask the doctor about giving your child a nondrowsy antihistamine, such as loratadine (Claritin), to help treat mild symptoms. Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label. Mild symptoms include sneezing or an itchy or runny nose; an itchy mouth; a few hives or mild itchy skin; and mild belly pain or nausea.
  • Your doctor may prescribe a shot of epinephrine for you or your child to carry in case your child has a severe reaction. Learn how to give your child the shot. Older, mature children should be taught to give themselves the shot. Make sure it is with your child at all times. Make sure it has not expired.
  • Talk to your child's teachers and caregivers. Teach them what to do if your child has an allergic reaction to latex. Keep an epinephrine shot at your child's school or day care in case your child has a reaction.
  • Have your child wear medical alert jewelry that lists all allergies. You can buy this at most drugstores.

Latex allergy: When to call

Give an epinephrine shot if:

  • You think you are having a severe allergic reaction.

After giving an epinephrine shot call 911, even if you feel better.

Call 911 if:

  • You have symptoms of a severe allergic reaction. These may include:
    • Sudden raised, red areas (hives) all over your body.
    • Swelling of the throat, mouth, lips, or tongue.
    • Trouble breathing.
    • Passing out (losing consciousness). Or you may feel very lightheaded or suddenly feel weak, confused, or restless.
    • Severe belly pain, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
  • You have been given an epinephrine shot, even if you feel better.

Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

  • You have symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as:
    • A rash or hives (raised, red areas on the skin).
    • Itching.
    • Swelling.
    • Mild belly pain or nausea.

Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

  • You do not get better as expected.

©2011-2024 Healthwise, Incorporated

The content above contains general health information provided by Healthwise, Incorporated, and reviewed by its medical experts. This content should not replace the advice of your healthcare provider. Not all treatments or services described are offered as services by us. For recommended treatments, please consult your healthcare provider.