What is latex allergy?
Latex allergy is the allergic reaction seen in a person allergic to a protein present in rubber. This allergy can be caused either through contact or by inhalation of latex particles. The thin, stretchy latex in surgical gloves, condoms and balloons is high in this protein and causes a reaction on contact. In some cases, latex gloves are coated with cornstarch powder. The latex particles stick to the cornstarch and fly into the air when the gloves are taken off, and often cause latex allergy when inhaled.
An allergic reaction to latex can be mild or severe, depending upon the mode of contact with latex protein. The most common symptoms of latex allergy are –
Hidden sources of latex – Latex products are found in everyday use, which makes many people susceptible its allergy. Apart from the known products, there are many hidden sources of latex that a person with latex allergy should avoid –
The best way to avoid latex allergy is to stay away from latex products. Remember to wear a Medic Alert bracelet and carry an emergency epinephrine syringe if you come in contact with it at work. If your profession involves wearing gloves, then switching over to non-latex gloves, using glove liners, and paying more attention to hand care can help prevent latex allergy.
Allopathic treatment of latex allergy –
Allopathic treatment of latex allergy includes drugs like antihistamines (sprays, syrups and tablets) and steroid creams to get rid of allergy symptoms found in the lungs and on the skin. These drugs provide temporary relief and cannot be used on a long-term basis.
Ayurveda - Natural Herbal Remedy for Allergies
This herbal remedy is very useful in treating latex allergy on a longer duration. A herbal remedy like Salcura spray provide essential nutrients like aloe Vera and natural remedies such as sandalwood oil and sunflower oil that help skin to heal itself from the effects of latex allergy. As the natural remedy preparation is easily absorbed into the skin, it has a refreshing cooling effect with a pleasant herbal fragrance. A natural remedy for allergy like the one mentioned above, contains minerals, essential oils, moisturizers and natural anti bacterial, anti fungal properties that protect the skin from adverse reactions of latex.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for allergy treatment –
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is an effective method of treating asthma caused due to latex allergy. A Chinese natural herbal remedy called Xifukang eliminates asthmatic symptoms including cough, sputum production, chest pain, weakness, and wheezing, thereby improving the pulmonary function. Xifukang promotes blood circulation to eliminate blood stasis, increases ventilation and regulates the immune function of the lungs. This medicine protects the lungs from prolonged latex exposure and is a natural remedy.
Reflexology for latex allergy relief –
Reflexology is a non-invasive, holistic treatment to help people with latex allergy. It helps to maintain a balance between organs and tissues throughout the body by stimulating the nervous system. This strengthens and normalizes the circulatory and respiratory system. Reflexology activates the body's own healing force to strengthen lung and bronchial tissue and skin, hence protecting them from latex allergy and preventing a reaction to the allergen.
Respiratory symptoms are very common in most of the allergic reactions. Asthma is one of these symptoms that needs immediate attention. Read about the connection between asthma and allergy in our allergy section.