Complications and Risks of Latex Allergy

Latex allergy can cause serious problems if it is not recognised or if latex is not avoided.

Anaphylaxis

• A sudden, life-threatening reaction with throat swelling, breathing trouble and low blood pressure
• Can happen during surgery, dental work, gynaecological or urinary procedures, and with condoms or catheters
• Needs adrenaline and urgent hospital care. Call 112.

Asthma and breathing problems

Airborne latex particles can trigger sneezing, cough and wheeze, and may cause or worsen asthma in healthcare workers.

Skin problems

• Chronic hand dermatitis
• Cracked skin that gets infected
• Delayed contact allergy to rubber chemicals

Work and daily life

• Healthcare workers may need to change tasks or workplaces
• Anxiety about hidden latex exposure
• Need for planning around medical and dental care

Food allergy

Reactions to cross-reacting foods such as banana, avocado, kiwi and chestnut.

Procedure-related risks

An unrecognised latex allergy during surgery can lead to a serious intra-operative reaction. Tell your surgical team before any procedure.

Children

Children with spina bifida or repeated procedures have a higher risk and need latex-free care from birth.

Warning signs needing urgent care

Swelling of the face or throat, trouble breathing, fainting, widespread hives after latex contact. Call 112.

Reducing risk

Confirm the diagnosis, avoid latex, carry an adrenaline injector when prescribed and tell every carer.

Key point

Serious reactions are preventable with diagnosis, avoidance and a clear emergency plan.

Before your appointment

Note which items or procedures caused symptoms, how soon symptoms began, and how long they lasted. List any reactions to bananas, avocado, kiwi, chestnut or other foods. Mention your job, past surgeries, catheters, asthma, eczema and other allergies. List medicines, supplements and herbal products, and bring any allergy card or adrenaline injector. Ask about allergy testing, latex-free products and an emergency action plan. Tell your doctor and dentist about the allergy before any procedure. Call 112 for swelling of the face or throat or trouble breathing.