A latex allergy is an allergic reaction to products containing latex. Latex is derived from the fluid extracted from a rubber tree. It has been used in a number of household products, as well as medical products. Common medical products that contain latex include stoppers on syringes, blood pressure cuffs, oxygen tubing, and catheters. Latex allergies peaked in the 1990s before latex-free products were widely developed.
Signs and symptoms of a latex allergy include an itchy skin rash at the contact site. The rash is red and resembles the rash of poison ivy. Another type of reaction to latex is the more severe anaphylactic reaction, which can involve the skin, respiratory system, gastrointestinal system, and circulatory system.
Cause of a latex allergy
Extreme sensitivity to latex protein causes latex allergies.
Other latex allergy symptoms and signs
- Chest Tightness
- Itchy Red Rash (Hives)
- Itchy, Watery Eyes
- Runny Nose
- Skin Rash
- Sneezing
- Swollen Throat
- Swollen Tongue
- Trouble Breathing
Main Article on Latex Allergy Symptoms and Signs
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Examples of Medications for Latex Allergy Symptoms and Signs
- Adrenaclick (epinephrine)
- Antihistamine Shots (Injections)
- Antihistamines (Oral)
- betamethasone
- bitolterol mesylate
- chlorpheniramine
- cortisone
- cyproheptadine
- Does Immunotherapy Work for Allergies?
- EpiPen (epinephrine auto-injector)
- ipratropium
- levocetirizine
- loratadine
- Polmon (dexchlorpheniramine maleate)
- pseudoephedrine
- quercetin
- Side Effects of Periactin (cyproheptadine)
- sodium chloride intranasal
- Symjepi (epinephrine)
- triamcinolone
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