Reviewed by medical experts • For informational purposes only
What is latex allergy: an immune reaction to natural rubber latex, where it is found, who is at risk and why it matters.
Latex allergy is an immune reaction to proteins found in natural rubber latex, the milky sap of the rubber tree. It is different from a reaction to synthetic rubber.
Where latex is found
What happens
The immune system treats latex proteins as harmful. On contact, or by breathing in powder that carries latex proteins from gloves, it releases chemicals such as histamine. This can cause skin, nose, eye, breathing or whole-body reactions.
Who is at risk
Why it matters
Reactions range from mild itching to a life-threatening allergic reaction (). Once latex allergy is confirmed, avoiding latex is the main protection.
Ayurvedic view
Ayurveda has no separate name for latex allergy and would describe allergic reactions in general terms of Pitta and Kapha imbalance. This is a traditional view and not a modern diagnosis.
Key point
Latex allergy can be serious, but it is manageable with testing, avoidance and an 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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