Latex allergy is an allergy to proteins that are present in natural rubber or to the chemicals used in processing the rubber. When a person is exposed to latex, they may become hypersensitive to it. This means that their body's immune system may overreact to it on re-exposure.
The body thinks that the latex is harmful and makes antibodies to attack it. Eczema and asthma are common symptoms of the allergy.
There are two types of allergies related to latex: Type 1 and Type IV.
Type IV reaction
This can be described as an immune response to chemical allergens, such as chemical accelerators used to set the latex during the manufacturing process. These are seen as skin reactions, erythemia blisters, constant itching and broken skin (prone to infection), pruitus, eye irritation, respiratory wheezing / shortness of breath and chronic rhinitis.
Type I reaction
Is an immune response caused by protein allergies. Individuals could suffer a life threatening anaphylactic reaction from something as simple as contact with a rubber latex glove, latex condom or even the dust from a latex rubber product. An almost immediate hypersensitivity reaction occurs within 30 minutes and may result in a rash.
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