With a latex allergy, your immune system recognizes latex as harmful and produces antibodies to combat it. When you are exposed to latex again, these antibodies trigger your immune system to release histamine and other chemicals. As a result of this process, allergy symptoms are produced. Your immune system is likely to respond more strongly to latex the more often you are exposed, this process is known as sensitization. For this reason, individuals who are frequently exposed to latex such as healthcare workers are particularly susceptible to developing latex allergies.   Latex allergies are also more common in people who undergo multiple surgeries or medical procedures. You are more likely to develop latex allergy if you are repeatedly exposed to latex gloves and medical products. When you have other allergies, such as hay fever or food allergies, or if your family has them, you have an increased risk of latex allergy.