Contact dermatitis consists of a rash that occurs on the area of the body where the person touches latex. For example, contact dermatitis may occur on the hands of a person who wears latex gloves frequently. Yes, latex allergy can manifest in many ways other than a rash. The symptoms can range from mild to severe. It is important to recognize the early symptoms because experts believe that the sensitivity can become more serious over time as a person is repeatedly exposed to latex.
Some groups face an increased risk for developing latex allergy.
Health care workers who frequently use latex gloves and touch health care products containing latex are at higher risk than average. Those who work in manufacturing of products containing latex also suffer from a greater risk of the allergy. Swelling and itching are common signs of latex allergy. Suspect latex allergy if you have swelling and itching after medical examinations, contact with rubber gloves, swelling or itching of the mouth and lips after blowing up a balloon or a dental examination, or oral itching after eating bananas, chestnuts or avocados. Most male condoms and the diaphragm contain latex rubber.