Up to 6% of the general population and 8% to 12% of health care workers suffer from latex allergy. Other employees working in the profession of using latex gloves, such as salons, food service, tattoo shops, auto repair shops, police stations or fire stations, are also exposed to sensitive risks.

If you experience common latex allergy symptoms, you may be allergic. If left untreated, the latex reaction can be life-threatening.

Read on to learn about latex allergy symptoms, how to treat them, and how to avoid reactions.

Minor latex allergy symptoms

If you have mild latex allergies or minor contact, be aware of these reactions.

• Rash

• Urticaria (an itchy skin)

• Itching and / or red skin

• Swelling at the point of contact (usually hand)

• Bored or runny nose

• Itchy eyes or tears

• Sneeze

Skin reactions are less common in today's society because most medical services have turned to non-latex gloves to ensure safety.

Treatment of Minor Reactions

Try taking oral antihistamines or foaming the skin with an antihistamine gel or lotion. Calamine emulsions and hydrocortisone creams may also be effective. Apply a cream every few hours until the symptoms subsided.

If you have congestion, take an over-the-counter decongestant or nasal spray.

Natural home remedies can help soothe and cure allergic reactions.

For rashes, try to soak in the oatmeal bath. Oatmeal has anti-inflammatory and moisturizing properties. Always use warm water because it can cause itching to worsen.

Apple cider vinegar is another remedy for rashes. It removes toxins from the skin through its antibacterial and antifungal properties. It is also known to reduce inflammation.

In fact, you can use apple cider vinegar to alleviate allergy symptoms. Just drink a tablespoon of water or tea mixture every day.

For itching, try lavender essential oil, aloe vera essential oil or cocoa butter.

Allergic contact dermatitis

Allergic contact dermatitis is a skin allergy that occurs after wearing latex gloves or products. Symptoms will begin 1 to 3 days after the gloves are used.

Contact dermatitis can be like eczema or blisters. They are most common on the back of the hand and are mistaken for poison ivy.

Treatment of allergic contact dermatitis

The remedy for allergic contact dermatitis caused by latex allergy is similar to the treatment of secondary reactions. Take over-the-counter or prescription antihistamines and use hydrocortisone cream on your hands.

In severe cases, your doctor may prescribe a steroid or ointment to stop the inflammation and spread of the rash.

Try using the home remedies mentioned above to soothe dry skin and inflammation.

Severe latex allergy symptoms

If not treated quickly, severe allergic reactions can be life-threatening. Observe these reactions within minutes of exposure to latex:

Asthma-like symptoms such as difficulty breathing, wheezing and chest tightness

Nausea and / or vomiting

Feeling dizzy and/or weak

Blood pressure drop

Chest pain

If you have any of these symptoms, your allergies can be severe and you should seek medical attention immediately.

Treating severe latex reactions

If you have an adrenaline pen, please use it. Next, make an emergency call even if automatic injection is helpful. The medical team may inject you with steroids and treat your symptoms accordingly.

If you know you have an allergy, order and wear a medical alert to identify the bracelet or necklace. If you have a serious reaction in the future, this can save your life because it tells the medical staff how to treat you best.