How Does Latex Allergy Develop?

Latex allergy is relatively uncommon.

This is particularly true in recent years as the use of highly sensitizing powdered latex gloves has drastically declined.

Person’s hand washing paint brushes under a faucet

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In most cases, the allergy develops after many exposures to latex.

Symptoms can include any combination of the following:

The most extreme reaction isanaphylaxis, a life-threatening medical emergency.

Does Latex Paint Pose a Risk for People With Latex Allergy?

One concern people with latex allergy may have is whether exposure to latex paint is safe.

The natural latex protein contains allergens that can cause a reaction in people who are allergic to latex.

Latex paint does not contain natural latex protein.

Many companies have proposed changing the name of latex paint to avoid using the word latex.

Inappropriate disposal of latex paint can also harm the environment by posing a risk to fish and wildlife.

American Latex Allergy Association.