Some children may have contact sensitivity to latex causing them to develop an itchy, bumpy red rash where they have skin contact with latex. Other children may have an actual allergy to latex.
Reactions can be seen when products made from latex come in contact with the child's skin, mucous membranes in the mouth, genitals, bladder, or rectum, or the bloodstream (during surgery). Some children may also react when blowing up a rubber balloon or breathing in powder from the inside of latex gloves.
When a child with a latex allergy comes in contact with a latex product, the following symptoms may occur:
- Watery or itchy eyes
- Flushing of the skin or a skin rash
- Itching of the skin
- Swelling of the skin
Severe reactions with difficulty breathing or faintness require emergency treatment.
The symptoms of a latex allergy may look like other medical conditions. Always consult your child's physician for a diagnosis.