Get Prevention And Management Of Latex Allergy

Epinephrine should be administered without delay when symptoms appear. Mild Sensitivity: If a mild sensitivity is present and there is only a local reaction – the skin is itchy and red at the site where latex was touched – your doctor may suggest using an antihistamine or using 1% hydrocortisone cream.

How can I protect myself from latex allergy? Use nonlatex gloves for activities that are not likely to involve contact with infectious materials (food preparation, routine housekeeping, general maintenance, etc.). Appropriate barrier protection is necessary when handling infectious materials.

Avoid areas where latex may be in the air, such as a hospital room where providers use latex gloves. Talk to your healthcare provider about wearing a medical alert bracelet. In a medical emergency, the bracelet lets others know you're allergic to latex.

Polyisoprene condoms. Made from synthetic rubber, these don't contain the same proteins that cause an allergic reaction. Compared with latex condoms, polyisoprene condoms are stretchier. They also offer similar levels of pregnancy and STD prevention.

How do you treat latex allergies? Antihistamines: If your reaction to latex is mild, antihistamines may help minimize your symptoms if you have to come in contact with latex. Epinephrine: Providers treat severe allergic reactions with epinephrine. ... Steroids: Steroids can calm down your immune system and reduce swelling.

Appropriate barrier protection is necessary when handling infectious materials. If you choose latex gloves, use powder-free gloves with reduced protein content. Such gloves reduce exposures to latex protein and thus reduce the risk of latex allergy.

Epinephrine is usually given at the first sign of a severe allergic reaction, followed by emergency medical treatment. Your doctor will provide specific information about when and how you should use epinephrine.

There is no cure for a latex allergy, so the best treatment is avoidance. For mild reactions, your doctor may prescribe antihistamines to treat your symptoms. If you have a severe allergy to latex, injectable epinephrine can be used to prevent anaphylaxis.