Latex allergies can cause symptoms that range from a mild rash or stuffy nose to life-threateninganaphylaxis.
Many foods contain proteins similar to those in natural latex.
This article explains why this cross-reactivity happens and how to identify latex allergy foods.
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It also lists some foods and latex products that some people with latex allergic reactions also have to avoid.
There are two types of latex allergies: A classic allergy is a full-body immune system response.
The other only affects the skin (contact dermatitis).
Classic latex allergy symptoms include:
In some cases, a life-threatening reaction calledanaphylaxiscan occur.
This causes severe breathing difficulty and a drop in blood pressure (shock).
If you or someone you know is having difficulty breathing, call 911 immediately.
People with contact dermatitis from latex should make a run at avoid latex.
Pacifiers and baby bottle nipples may contain latex.
All told, latex is found in more than 40,000 products.
What Is a Latex-Fruit Reaction?
Natural rubber latex contains proteins that can trigger an allergic reaction.
Some food contains similar proteins and can cause what is known as latex-fruit reactions.
As the name suggests, a latex-fruit reaction can occur with certain fruits and vegetables with seeds.
Latex-fruit reactions can be as severe as a classic latex allergy and may causeanaphylaxis.
Possibly, but much about latex allergy remains unknown.
Cross-reactivity often occurs within a “family” of foods.
High-Risk Foods
A few foods are more likely to contain proteins that can cause latex-fruit syndrome.
Is Restaurant Dining Safe for People With Latex Food Reactions?
Dining out with a latex food allergy is possible but requires care.
Food workers often wear gloves, which may introduce latex.
Latex also may be airborne or may be present in materials used in the environment.
How Are Food and Latex Allergies Diagnosed?
Blood tests are available for both food allergies and latex allergies.
Skin tests are also available for food allergens but are not available for latex in the United States.
In many cases, they will only need to take a history.
In some cases, testing may be necessary.
They also may want to rule out other possible conditions responsible for your symptoms, such asasthma.
Who Is at Risk for Latex Allergies?
Anyone can develop a latex allergy, but some people are at higher risk.
The precise link between medical conditions and latex allergies is unclear.
How Are Food and Latex Allergies Treated?
There is no known cure for a latex allergy.
Avoiding all latex is key.
Latex-free school products and sports equipment are available.
Ensure you and your pediatrician share age-appropriate information about latex allergy and latex products with your child.
This cross-reactivity means they may have to avoid certain foods and latex products.
Avocado, banana, and kiwi are common fruits that can trigger this response.
There are many other latex food allergies, so it’s essential to identify what’s causing the allergy.
Your healthcare provider or allergy specialist can help you understand your diagnosis and its treatment.
Sometimes, a latex food allergy can cause a life-threatening anaphylactic response.
Seek medical care immediately if latex or a related fruit allergy causes sudden and severe symptoms.
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