Latex allergy Allergy to latex appears to be a relatively new and increasingly frequent problem. Although the reasons for this are not clear, they may include increased use of latex gloves over the past decade due to precaution policies that have been instituted at health care facilities, and changes in the manufacturing of latex products. Latex is a milky fluid produced by rubber trees. Using different methods, latex can be processed into a variety of products, such as gloves and balloons.
Products made of or from blends of natural rubber latex and other compounds are very common.
In those with latex allergy, allergic reactions are often triggered by dipped latex products. Products that commonly cause reactions can include gloves, balloons and condoms. In rare instances, those who are allergic to latex may also react to rubber bands, erasers, rubber parts of toys, various medical devices, latex clothing and elastic in clothes, or feeding nipples and pacifiers. Products made from crepe rubber, such as soles of shoes, are also unlikely to cause reactions. Most latex paints are not a problem since they do not contain natural latex.