Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein. A latex allergy is an allergic reaction that happens after repeated contact with latex, such as latex gloves. It affects people who are often exposed to rubber products. Medical products that may contain latex include: Personal or household products that may contain latex include: Allergic reactions to latex can vary from mild to life-threatening. Or they may progress from a mild reaction to a more severe one. Symptoms may include: A latex allergy is diagnosed with a physical exam and other tests. You will be asked about your symptoms and any recent exposure to latex. The doctor may also ask a lot of questions about your past health. Tests may include: Skin tests should always be done by doctors who are experienced and equipped to respond to a severe reaction. Avoiding latex is the best treatment. Severe reactions may need to be treated in a hospital. If you've had a severe reaction to latex before, carry an epinephrine shot. Be sure you know how to give yourself the shot. Take a nondrowsy antihistamine, such as loratadine (Claritin), to help treat mild symptoms. People who have allergies to certain foods are more likely to have a latex allergy. These foods include bananas, chestnuts, kiwifruit, avocados, and tomatoes. People with latex allergies may get allergies to these foods because the protein in the foods is similar to the protein in rubber. Latex allergies are also more common in people who have a history of atopic dermatitis. This is a skin condition that causes intense itching and a rash. In lighter skin, the rash may look pink or red. In darker skin, the rash may be hard to see or it may look dark brown, gray, or purple. Or there may be patches of lighter skin. Current as of: September 25, 2023 Author: Healthwise Staff Current as of: September 25, 2023 Author: Healthwise Staff Clinical Review Board This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Learn how we develop our content. To learn more about Healthwise, visit Healthwise.org. © 1995-2024 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.Topic Contents
Allergy to Natural Rubber (Latex)
Condition Basics
What is latex allergy?
What products may cause latex allergy?
What are the symptoms?
How is it diagnosed?
How is latex allergy treated?
What puts you at risk?
Related Information
Credits
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein. Current as of: September 25, 2023 Author: Healthwise Staff Clinical Review BoardAllergy to Natural Rubber (Latex)
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.