The symptoms include redness, itching and blistering. Type I Latex Allergy is the most serious kind of reaction and it occurs within minutes of exposure. Symptoms include swelling, itching, hives, inflammation of nasal passages, asthma, drop in blood pressure and anaphylaxis which, in extreme cases, involves airway obstruction, convulsions, oxygen deprivation and even death. Once someone has been sufficiently exposed to latex proteins, their antibody production rises and that person becomes increasingly sensitive to latex protein allergens. At that point, any exposure to latex proteins can cause an allergic reaction.
Latex allergies can change a person's life.
Many individuals are forced to leave their jobs and must be attentive to other possible exposures. Simply entering a hospital or other facility where latex gloves are used can be life threatening.