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.

Tuesday, March 4, 2008

Holiday items that contain latex or can cause a cross-reaction.

This list was put together by someone else that has severe NRLA allergies. She is from one of the latex allergy groups on yahoo.

Halloween:

Pumpkins are a possible cross reactive in the Squash family

Candles in Jack O’Lanterns may pose a problem.

Masks may be made of latex, or the elastic that stretches to hold masks on your face.

Face paints may cause reactions

Poinsettia Plants will be making an appearance soon. doctor's offices,
pharmacies, stores, and homes. The poinsettia plant is not suppose to cause a
reaction unless you touch it. But that's what most people believe about latex
gloves too.

>>> the poinsettia and Brazilian rubber tree belong to the Euphorbiaceae
family.


Artificial Trees and Real Pine Tree:
Artificial Trees may be constructed of glues made of latex, they may also
have latex in the fabrics used, or flocking. Lights used on these trees may
cause the vapor to omit. With some research some artificial trees can be found
that are latex free.
Pine Trees and Scents: Be careful if you are highly reactive.

Candles: It is my understanding that some candles have latex in the wicks,
and that scents can be a trigger for some allergic people.

Spiced Cider and Cooking odors:
Food odors become airborne when heated. Some businesses keep a pot of Spiced
cider heating in leiu of coffee. Cinnamon, Nutmeg or other spices may be an
issue. Mint is a big troublemaker for me, toothpaste, breath mints, teas, etc.

Potlucks: Taking your own food would assure you that it hasn’t been handled
with nrl gloves. In today's fast paced world it's very likely that dishes
have been prepared at a Deli, and then transferred into serving dishes, leaving you
in a quandry over how they were prepared. Reactions can occur
with GI Anaphylaxis after eating food handled with latex gloves.

Flower Deliveries: Poinsettia Plants or Miniature Christmas trees

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