Try this patient education on latex sensitivity
The Marshfield (WI) Clinic at St. Joseph’s Hospital uses the following information in educating its patients about latex sensitivity:
Latex/natural rubber sensitivity
The occurrence of allergic reactions to latex, or natural rubber, is increasing. Persons with a known latex sensitivity, or those at risk for developing it, need to develop an awareness of this condition and know how to protect themselves from future reactions.
Natural latex is the milky sap of the rubber tree or plant. Rubber is a processed plant product that is derived from latex. The proteins in the latex appear to be the primary source of allergic reactions.
Latex sensitivity occurs most frequently in populations that have increased exposure to latex products. The greatest risk of reaction occurs when latex products come in direct contact with mucous membranes, a person receives latex in an injection, or a person inhales latex particles. The following are high-risk groups for developing latex sensitivity:
• Persons with spina bifida/myelomeningo- cele or urogenital anomaly — due to multi- ple surgeries or medical procedures.
• Persons using rubber catheters/latex gloves for urinary catheterizations or enemas.
• Health care professionals following universal precautions requiring use of gloves.
• Persons with industrial/occupational expo- sure to latex or rubber and those wearing protective rubber gear.
• Persons developing latex sensitivity fre- quently have a history of hay fever, asthma, eczema, or allergies to food or other items.
Symptoms
Symptoms of an allergic response to latex can vary from a mild reaction (skin rash) to severe life-threatening shock (anaphylaxis). Severity of symptoms depends on each person’s sensitivity and amount of exposure to latex. The most common symptoms include:
• skin rash, itching
• red, swollen skin
• hives, welts
• eyes watery, irritated
• nasal congestion, runny nose
• sneezing
• wheezing
• shortness of breath, difficulty breathing
• chest pain
• lips and mouth swell and itch after blowing up balloons or eating certain foods
Diagnosis to determine sensitivity to latex is made by skin or blood testing and history of exposure.
Precautions
Take these necessary precautions to minimize the risk of latex sensitivity reactions:
• Become aware of products containing latex/ natural rubber. Decrease exposure to these products.
• Wash area thoroughly if exposed to a latex product.
• Maintain intact skin; seek treatment for any signs of dermatitis.
• Wear a Medic-Alert bracelet or necklace stating "Allergy to Latex."
• Carry synthetic gloves with you in case they are needed.
• Ask your physician about carrying an epinephrine self-injector kit.
• Inform health care providers, dentists, employers, teachers, and babysitters of latex sensitivity.
Food allergies
Persons who have allergic reactions (itching in mouth, rash, wheezing, or hives after eating) to the following foods also may have a latex sensitivity:
— avocados — milk
— bananas — nectarines
— cherries — papaya
— celery — passion fruit
— chestnuts — peaches
— figs — plums
— kiwi fruit — potatoes
— melons — tomatoes
Household products
Following is a listing of products that may contain latex/natural rubber: (This is not a complete listing. Always check manufacturers’ labels for latex/natural rubber content. Call manufacturers and ask about product contents if not listed on the packaging because this labeling is not required by law.)
— art supplies (paint, markers)
— balloons
— bath toys, rattles
— beach shoes, boots, sneakers
— bungee cords
— crib, mattress pads
— disposable diapers, rubber pants
— elastic in clothing
— elastic thread
— eye piece on binoculars, cameras
— feeding nipples, pacifiers
— foam-rubber padding, pillows
— household/cleaning gloves
— latex paint (avoid inhaling and skin contact when paint is wet)
— raincoats, waterproof clothing
— rubber balls
— rubber bands
— rubber erasers
— rubber grips on sport equipment
— rubber Halloween masks
— rubber stamps
— rubber stoppers
— spandex paints, girdles, athletic supporters
— swim gear (fins, goggles, snorkels, scuba equipment, and clothing)
— teething toys
— telephone cords
— tires
Medical/health products
— adhesive tape, some bandages
— airway equipment
— blood pressure cuffs
— bulb or ear syringes
— condoms, diaphragms
— crutch pads
— dental dams
— elastic bandages, Ace wraps
— latex gloves
— rubber tubing, catheters
— syringes, IV supplies
— tourniquets
— wheelchair tires
Use alternative products made of vinyl, Teflon, or silicone, including vinyl gloves, plastic tape, cloth or plastic toys, or Velcro. Have a layer of cotton cloth/stockinette between the rubber product (elastic bandage, blood pressure cuff, elastic in clothing) and your skin.
Call your medical provider if you have any questions or concerns related to latex/natural rubber sensitivity.
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