What is it?

Latex is a natural product made from the milky sap of the rubber tree (Heavea Brasillienus).  Its durability, flexibility and low manufacturing costs has made latex a popular material. A latex allergy is a reaction to products made from natural rubber latex. The reactive is proteins
originating from the rubber tree and present in products made of natural rubber latex. text

Causes:

Allergies develop when the immune system reacts to the proteins as if they were harmful. Extended exposure builds antibodies which build up in the immune system. The antibodies “attack” the proteins with powerful chemicals causing an allergic reaction.

Who is at Risk?

Anyone who comes in contact with latex has some risk of developing latex allergies. People with extended exposure who may pose higher risk include:
• Patients whose regular care involves latex
• Healthcare workers
• People who work with other latex products
Persons with Spina Bifida & Hydrocephalus, congenital urological abnormalities, cerebral palsy and Dandy-Walker syndrome are all at particular risk due to repeated exposure during surgical procedures and at home care associated with these disabilities (catheterization may also put people at risk).

Symptoms:

There are varying severities of allergic reaction:
Mild reaction symptoms may include:
• skin rash
• hives
• itchy, watery eyes
• runny nose
• redness in area where contact occurred
More serious reaction symptoms may include:
• drop in blood pressure
• rapid heart rate
• swelling of the throat
• wheezing and difficulty breathing
• flushed face

Products containing Latex:

Latex is found in several products around the home and health care setting:
• latex/rubber gloves                                                     
• catheters
• blood pressure cuffs
• rubber top vials
• tourniquets
• IV injection ports
• IV tubing
• Enema tips
• Anesthesia masks
• Feeding tubes
• Balloons
• Carpet backing
• Condoms and diaphragms
• Elastic on socks and other clothing
• Bandages
• Water toys
• Handgrips on racquets and tools
• Erasers
• Glue
• Pens and crayons
• Plants (rubber tree and poinsettia)

Cross-reference Allergies:

Seven proteins have been identified in latex and some are structurally similar and “cross-reactive” with proteins in certain fruits. It is recommended that patients allergic to these fruits caution for potential latex allergy.
Bananas, Papaya, Avocados,  Peaches, Chestnuts, Kiwi, Apples, Potatoes, Carrots, Melons, Celery, Walnuts,Tomatoes  and Peanuts.
Please check with your medical professional as the list may not be complete.

Identifying Latex Allergies:

Identifying sensitivity comes from a review of medical history, physical examination and blood evaluation. Three FDA approved tests for latex specific IgE antibodies (immunoassays) are:
Pharmacia & Upjohn CAP system
Diagnostic Products’ Alastat
Hycor Assay
Latex reagent diagnostic skin testing

Living with Latex Allergies

If you live with a latex allergy you are encouraged to take the following precautions:
  • Carry and adrenaline kit (Ana-kit or Epi-Pen) to treat possible sever reactions
  • Use a Medic-Alert bracelet
  • Carry a pair of latex free gloves in case of
  • emergency
  • Always inform you Doctor of latex concerns prior to surgical procedures so special precautions can be taken. 
     It is possible that a mild reaction and repeated exposure may develop into a more sever reaction.

For Further Information:

For more information on Latex Allergies and latex-free products contact the following organizations:
Latexallergyresources.org
Latexallergylinks.tripod.com
Decentexposures.com
Spina Bifida & Hydrocephalus Association of Canada / Association de Spina-bifida et d'hydrocéphalie du Canada www.sbhac.ca

210-1600 Kenaston Blvd. P.O. Box 333, Winnipeg MB R3P 0Y4
Phone: (204) 362-7224 / sbmanitoba@gmail.com