How to Treat or Cure Latex Allergy

Latex allergy cannot be cured. Treatment focuses on avoiding latex, treating reactions and being prepared.

Step 1: Confirm the diagnosis

An allergist takes a history and may perform a skin prick test or a blood test for latex-specific IgE. Because skin tests can occasionally cause a reaction, they should be done under medical supervision. A patch test may be used for delayed rashes.

Step 2: Avoid latex

Switch to latex-free gloves, condoms, bandages and other products at home, work, school and in healthcare.

Step 3: Plan for emergencies

• Wear a medical alert bracelet or carry an allergy card
• Get a written action plan
• Carry an adrenaline auto-injector if prescribed and know how to use it

Step 4: Treat reactions

• Mild reactions: remove the item, wash the skin and use antihistamines as advised
• Delayed skin rash: skin care and prescribed creams
• Anaphylaxis: adrenaline and emergency care. Call 112.

Step 5: Plan medical and dental care

Tell your care team early so that latex-free equipment and a latex-safe environment are used.

Step 6: Follow up

Review with an allergist, especially if symptoms change or you have new food reactions.

Outlook

Allergy usually lasts for life, but strict avoidance prevents most reactions.

Complementary care

Ayurveda and other approaches should not replace avoidance and emergency planning.

Key point

Avoid latex, carry a plan, and treat reactions fast.

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.