Asthma and Allergy > Allergies > Conditions > Latex Allergy

Latex allergy

The protein in latex rubber can cause an allergic reaction in some people. About 40,000 products contain latex, including:

• balloons
• rubber toys
• erasers
• pacifiers and baby-bottle nipples
• rubber gloves
• rubber bands
• adhesive tape and bandages
• diapers and sanitary pads
• condoms

No one is born with a latex allergy, but it can develop after exposure to latex. Frequent exposure to latex increases the risk of developing a latex allergy. Health care workers are at higher risk for latex allergy because they work with many medical supplies that contain latex, such as rubber gloves, IV tubing, syringes, surgical masks and blood pressure cuffs.

Symptoms

Hives or rash Sneezing or runny nose Itchy, red, watery eyes Coughing Breathing difficulty Anaphylaxis

Treatment

No treatment exists for latex allergy. The best way to reduce the risk of a reaction is to avoid direct contact with latex. Most latex products have alternatives. Wear a medical alert necklace, bracelet or keychain that alerts medical professionals about your latex allergy. If you are a health care worker, avoid areas where other workers may be wearing latex, or ask that your co-workers use latex-free alternatives.