Latex allergy is caused by the protein present in the latex of the rubber tree (Hevea brasiliensis). Synthetic rubber materials do not contain these allergy causing proteins. The elastic latex rubber used to manufacture balloons, gloves and condoms is high in this protein hence causes more allergic reactions than hard rubber products like tires. The latex particles also get into air as powdered latex gloves are taken off or put on.
While symptoms of delayed (type IV) hypersensitivity usually develop within 1-2 days of exposure, immediate (type I) hypersensitivity symptoms appear within a few minutes of exposure. The symptoms of latex allergy might be mild or severe, and could include Pruritus of exposed skin and mucous membranes, Edema of the skin, mucous membranes, or subcutaneous tissues, skin lesions, Rhinitis, Dyspnea, Abdominal cramping, Nausea, vomiting , Rash or hives, Chest tightness and breathing problems or shock.
People who use latex gloves are likely to get bumps, skin lesions, cracks or redness on their hands. The best prevention method is to switch to non-latex gloves or to use glove liners. Ensure proper hand care to alleviate these symptoms.
Anyone can have latex allergies; however health care workers and rubber industry workers are high risk groups. Other sections that are likely to develop latex allergy include health care workers with hay fever, people who have undergone surgeries and those with spina bifida and urologic abnormalities. In some rare cases a latex-sensitive person can also suffer a life-threatening allergic reaction with no warning or symptoms.
Some proteins in rubber are similar to proteins present in some food articles like banana, avocado, chestnut, kiwi fruit and tomato; hence such foods can cause allergic reaction in people with latex allergies. It is advisable to avoid foods that have already given you an allergic reaction as avoiding all foods is not practical. Latex could be everywhere from chewing gum to rubber mouse pads and as a precaution, all these could be avoided by sensitive people.
There is no treatment for latex allergy, and the best possible way is to avoid contact with latex. Use non rubber products and wear a protective mask to prevent latex particles from powdered gloves getting into your nose, if you work in such an environment.
Always wear or carry a medical alert bracelet that alerts emergency medical technicians (EMTs) and physicians about your allergic reaction to latex.
Salcura spray, a natural remedy offers vital nutrients like aloe Vera and natural cures such as sunflower oil and sandalwood oil helps the skin recover from the symptoms of latex allergy.
Warning: The reader of this article should exercise all precautionary measures while following instructions on the home remedies from this article. Avoid using any of these products if you are allergic to it. The responsibility lies with the reader and not with the site or the writer.