Introduction

I have a Natural Rubber Latex Allergy, i was diagnosed with it 9 years ago. At that time I didn't really think much into it or how it would affect my life so dramatically. If i knew then what I know now I may have been able to prevent it from developing from what it was, a simple skin rash that itched to what it is now... full blown anaphylactic reactions. I know some do not know what anaphylaxis, in short it is the body reacting upon itself to rid itself of a deadly allergen. The following link explains in detail what anaphlaxis is and how it effects the body. Anaphylaxis-Wikipedia

There are two different types of latex allergies, Type I and Type IV. Type IV is the most prevalent. It consists of contact dermatitis, redness and itching. It is easily taken care of by washing the affected area with soap and water. Type I is not as prevalent, yet is the most dangerous. It can be deadly if proper medical attention is not. Some of the symptoms of a Type I reaction are:

It is possible to have both types of reactions, I do. while it is rare it does happen.

I have experienced all of the above except the encephalitis. With the use of various medications I have been able to control the reactions, in the event they do not work I carry epi-pens with me everywhere I go. I wear a medical bracelet and very vigilant over what I come in contact with. There is no cure, shot or anything that can help, only avoidance of latex containing products will offer any kind of relief. Repeated exposures will make the reactions worse... eventually the only thing that will work will be epi-pens and trips to the emergency room. ( at a latex free hospital. Which are out there, just have to vigilant in finding them)

That is why I have created this blog in the hopes that even one person will be able to successfully live with this allergy. I am quite sure things would have been different for me if I had known all of this in the beginning.

Monday, March 10, 2008

FREE MEDICALERT ENROLLMENT FOR NEEDY INDIVIDUALS

I found the following link in a group i am in. While it is for people with food allergies, I know many people with NRLA are allergic to many types of food.

The following is from the web-site:

FREE MEDICALERT ENROLLMENT FOR NEEDY INDIVIDUALS

FAI is partnering with the MedicAlert Foundation to provide free enrollment for low-income children and adults who suffer from food allergies. Members select a MedicAlert jewelry product, which is engraved with their membership number and MedicAlert's 24-hour emergency response number. This information gives emergency medical personnel immediate access to the wearer's medical records. Benefits include:

� 24-hour emergency response
� Family notification
� Personal health record storage
� Wallet-sized membership card imprinted with personal health record information

It's easy to apply. To learn more, click here or call MedicAlert at 1-800-432-5378 and mention code 5000.

Food Allergy Initiative
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