An allergic reaction caused by inhalation of or contact with the latex proteins itself. The symptoms can range from eye-irritation, rhinitis or eczema to anaphylactic shock. Irritant dermatitis . A non-allergic reaction on the hands or any other part of the body in contact with the latex. Caused by the chemicals added during production.
Symptoms are a rash, itching and swelling.
If you experience any of the above symptoms after contact with latex, ask your doctor to test you for latex or other allergies. The skin prick test can, if necessary, be confirmed by a simple IgE blood test . People with a pre-existing allergy are at higher risk of developing allergy to latex. Avoidance can be difficult, since latex is used in many everyday items. Latex is a natural product and the fruits of other plants than the rubber tree have very similar proteins.