Reviewed by medical experts • For informational purposes only
Latex allergy risks: anaphylaxis, asthma, hand dermatitis, food reactions and surgery-related reactions.
Latex allergy can cause serious problems if it is not recognised or if latex is not avoided.
Asthma and breathing problems
Airborne latex particles can trigger sneezing, cough and wheeze, and may cause or worsen asthma in healthcare workers.
Skin problems
Work and daily life
Food allergy
Reactions to cross-reacting foods such as banana, avocado, kiwi and chestnut.
Procedure-related risks
An unrecognised latex allergy during surgery can lead to a serious intra-operative reaction. Tell your surgical team before any procedure.
Children
Children with spina bifida or repeated procedures have a higher risk and need latex-free care from birth.
Warning signs needing urgent care
Swelling of the face or throat, trouble breathing, fainting, widespread hives after latex contact. Call 112.
Reducing risk
Confirm the diagnosis, avoid latex, carry an adrenaline injector when prescribed and tell every carer.
Key point
Serious reactions are preventable with diagnosis, avoidance and a clear emergency plan.
Before your appointment
Note which items or procedures caused symptoms, how soon symptoms began, and how long they lasted. List any reactions to bananas, avocado, kiwi, chestnut or other foods. Mention your job, past surgeries, catheters, asthma, eczema and other allergies. List medicines, supplements and herbal products, and bring any allergy card or adrenaline injector. Ask about allergy testing, latex-free products and an emergency action plan. Tell your doctor and dentist about the allergy before any procedure. Call 112 for swelling of the face or throat or trouble breathing.
Written By
Dr. Daksh
BDS
Reviewed By
Dr. Varun Gupta
MD Pharmacology, MBBS
Last updated on
27 Sep 2022 • 06:23 PM (IST)
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