What can you do yourself?

If you have a latex allergy, you should avoid contact with natural rubber (latex). It is important to know that latex proteins can be airborne and inhaling them can cause respiratory problems if you are sensitive to latex. For this reason, it may be problematic to work in a room where others are using powdered latex gloves, because the powder spreads the latex.

It is also important to know that severe reactions can occur if latex proteins come into contact with mucous membrane. For example, this may happen on a visit to your doctor or dentist, when using contraceptive creams, or when blowing up balloons.

People with latex allergy can also develop symptoms when they eat certain fruits: banana, avocado, kiwi, papaya, figs and chestnuts; and vegetables, such as potatoes and tomatoes. These fruits and vegetables contain a protein similar to latex protein. People with latex allergy may also react to certain plants, for example, weeping fig.

You can use vinyl gloves instead of natural rubber gloves.

You should always inform your doctor or dentist if you have latex allergy.