Latex Allergy

Individuals with a sensitivity to latex may experience an allergic reaction upon contact with the natural rubber commonly used to manufacture items such as gloves, balloons, and condoms.

In San Antonio, the prevalence of latex allergy has been steadily increasing as more and more individuals are diagnosed with this condition.

This article will investigate the sources, manifestations, and management choices for latex allergy in San Antonio.

Types of Latex Allergies

Irritant Contact Dermatitis

Individuals with latex allergies can experience contact dermatitis caused by irritants (ICD). Latex, a natural rubber product, is widely employed for medical and dental items such as gloves, condoms, and balloons.

ICD symptoms may occur shortly or within a few hours of contact with latex.

Individuals with a latex allergy may experience cutaneous symptoms such as redness, itching, burning, dryness, and skin flaking in areas of contact with latex.

These signs and symptoms are comparable to Allergic Contact Dermatitis (ACD); however, they are usually less severe and do not typically cause hives or Anaphylaxis.

Allergic Contact Dermatitis

Allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) is an immunological skin condition triggered by exposure to a particular allergen, such as latex proteins. It is a form of delayed hypersensitivity, meaning symptoms may not emerge immediately after contact.

Signs and symptoms of Allergic Contact Dermatitis (ACD) in latex allergy may manifest as skin reddening, itching, hives, and blistering on affected areas of contact with latex.

In cases of an intense allergic reaction, Anaphylaxis may occur, posing a severe risk to the affected individual.

Latex Allergy Causes

An individual can be hypersensitive to latex, an organic compound of proteins that can trigger an immune system response when exposed to the skin, eyes, or mucous membranes. In such cases, the body’s reaction can result in an allergic reaction.

Frequent exposure to items such as latex gloves and condoms can increase the likelihood of developing a latex allergy, particularly in those regularly exposed, such as healthcare workers.

The latex allergy may increase the risk of developing food allergies, especially to bananas, avocados, kiwis, chestnuts, apples, melons, carrots, papayas, tomatoes, celery, and potatoes.

Latex Allergy Risk Factors

Latex allergy risk factors include:

• Exposure to latex: People who wear latex gloves frequently or have had multiple surgeries involving latex products are more likely to develop latex allergies.
• Allergies: Asthma and other allergies may increase the risk of latex allergy.
• The condition of spina bifida: Those with spina bifida are more likely to develop latex allergies.
• Age group: Younger individuals are more prone to developing a latex allergy than their more mature counterparts.
• A Man: Males demonstrate a higher propensity for developing latex allergy than females.
• Genetics: Individuals with a familial history of latex allergy are more likely to become allergic to it.

Latex Allergy Symptoms

Signs of latex allergy may differ in intensity depending on the severity of the reaction. Typical symptoms may include:

• Itching
• Skin redness
• Sneezing
• Scratchy throat
• Wheezing
• Cough

As a result of latex allergy, you may suffer from Anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is a bad hypersensitivity reaction marked by a decrease in blood pressure, breathing problems, and the potential to lose consciousness.

Tests and Diagnosis

At Juniper Allergy, our specialists help aid individuals diagnosed with latex allergies. We begin by comprehensively discussing the patient’s latex exposure, history of symptoms, and other allergies. After this, we may move forward with testing options such as blood and patch tests.

Those diagnosed with a latex allergy should know there is no cure or treatment to desensitize them. We are committed to educating sufferers on identifying and clearing off both overt and subtle sources of latex in their surroundings.

Latex Allergy Facts

• Hypersensitivity to latex can lead to an immune response in some individuals.
• Individuals with a history of high latex exposure, such as medical personnel who wear latex gloves regularly or those who have undergone multiple medical procedures involving latex products, may be prone to latex allergy.
• Individuals with latex allergy may experience skin inflammation, discomfort, urticaria, and in severe cases, Anaphylaxis (a potentially fatal allergic reaction).
• A skin patch assessment conducted by a dermatologist can be employed to determine if an individual is allergic to latex.

Let Juniper Allergy help

If you suffer from Latex Allergies our team is happy to answer any questions you may have and discuss your specific treatment needs. You can call (210) 888-1297 or email help@juniperallergy.com to discuss the next steps.