How to Diagnose Latex Allergies

Balloons are a common trigger of latex reactions.

The use of latex is widespread in today’s products. From balloons to tires, latex forms an important part of our world. Some people, however, develop an allergic reaction to latex. When this happens, the reaction often progresses in severity each time the patient is exposed. Diagnosis depends upon testing and the patient’s own observations. Read on to learn more about how to diagnose latex allergies.

Instructions

1. Observe your activity immediately prior to the onset of symptoms. If you experience an itchy rash or hives, swelling of the throat and mouth, eye irritation or difficulty breathing, make a note of what you did just prior to the onset of the symptoms. The most common triggers of latex reactions are balloons, condoms and latex gloves. Because these items are “dipped” latex, an allergic reaction is swift and can be severe.

2. Monitor mild latex reactions that result in skin irritation at the point of contact. Skin dermatitis is a non-severe form of allergic reaction to latex that shows up as a rash, blisters or inflamed and swollen skin. Mucus membranes are the most susceptible to irritation.

3. Visit your doctor if exposure to latex progresses from skin dermatitis to a latex allergy, determined by the symptoms in Step 1. If the severity of symptoms worsens, the likelihood of a potentially fatal reaction, known as anaphylaxis, is a distinct possibility with future exposure. You must carry an emergency epinephrine kit and know how to give yourself an injection.

4. Schedule a skin test with your doctor to determine if your symptoms are a result of a latex allergy. After exposure to latex on your arm or hand, your reaction will determine the diagnosis.

5. Restrict contact with latex products, especially those that have been dipped. Latex combination products, such as tires, may not cause a reaction but care should be taken around any item you suspect contains latex.

Tips & Warnings

• Visit your doctor if you think you may have an allergy to latex.