Allergy to Latex

Towards the end of the 1980s there was a huge increase in those taking precautions against the spread of diseases such as AIDS, including the latex glove. Since this time latex allergy has increased dramatically. Latex itself is an extract from a rubber tree, and it is transformed into a latex mixture during manufacturing. A person will either be allergic to the original latex, the mixture or both.

Why Are People Allergic to Latex?

Some people are allergic to latex due to their genes. However, allergy can also develop after increased exposure. Healthcare workers are exposed to a large number of latex products, which includes gloves and catheters. Those working in latex production are also far more likely to develop an allergy.

There also seems to be a link between food allergy and allergy to latex, where many people who have the latter will also be allergic to bananas and other fruits. It is unknown what causes this relationship.

How to Manage Allergy to Latex

Avoidance is the easiest way to avoid provoking any kind of allergy. This is possible due to synthetic rubber which is made without latex. This material can be used in place of latex in many situations. The only problem is the fact that it is currently not compulsory to label products that are latex free.

Some products are labelled ‘safe latex’ but these can still cause allergy, due to the fact that they contain only reduced portions of natural latex. It is also beneficial to use powder-less gloves, to prevent against allergy to the airborne latex.