Children with spina bifida and hydrocephalus sometimes have learning disabilities. Allergy to natural rubber latex is a new and troubling condition that was first identified in children with spina bifida. Doctors and researchers have found that individuals who are frequently exposed to latex are at greater risk for developing latex allergy. Because our children undergo frequent surgeries and have daily care that include the use of gloves and other latex products, they have a much higher rate of latex allergy than the general population. Once an individual has an allergic reaction to latex, they will remain allergic to latex.
Subsequent reactions can become more severe.
This means that your child should be on latex precautions from birth. Because latex allergy is an emerging phenomenon you may find that as the parent of a child with spina bifida you will be educating health care, therapy, and educational providers about latex allergy and spina bifida. The Spina Bifida Association of America is an excellent source of information on latex allergy. Details on how to contact them can be found near the bottom of this essay. Although babies and children with spina bifida are early customers for extensive health evaluations, infant stimulation, physical therapy, communication enhancement, developmental evaluations, and other professional intervention, it is important to keep in mind that every child deserves to be surrounded by people who love, respect and admire all children.