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Latex Allergy is a reaction to certain proteins found in natural rubber latex, a product made from the rubber tree. If you have a Latex Allergy, your body mistakes latex for a harmful substance.
In a Latex Allergy, your immune system identifies latex as a harmful substance and triggers certain antibodies to fight it off. The next time you’re exposed to latex, these antibodies tell your immune system to release histamine and other chemicals into your bloodstream, producing a range of allergy signs and symptoms. The more times you are exposed to latex, the more strongly your immune system is likely to respond. This is called sensitization. (Mayo Clinic)
Latex Allergy may cause itchy skin and hives or even anaphylaxis, a potentially life-threatening condition that can cause throat swelling and severe difficulty breathing.
If you’re allergic to latex, you’re likely to have symptoms after touching latex rubber products, such as gloves or balloons. You can also have symptoms if you breathe in latex particles that are released into the air when someone removes latex gloves.
Latex Allergy symptoms range from mild (itching, skin redness, hives/rash) to severe (sneezing, runny nose, itchy and watery eyes, scratchy throat, difficulty breathing, wheezing, coughing, dizziness, rapid/weak pulse, drop in blood pressure, loss of consciousness). A reaction depends on how sensitive you are to latex and the amount of latex you touch or inhale. Your reaction can become worse with each additional latex exposure. Understanding Latex Allergy and knowing common sources of latex can help you prevent allergic reactions.
Your doctor or other qualified medical practitioner can determine if you have a Latex Allergy or if you’re at risk of developing a Latex Allergy. Seek emergency medical care if you think you are having an anaphylactic reaction. It’s always best to seek treatment while you are reacting. (Mayo Clinic)
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