Health Tip: Living With Latex Allergy

How to avoid a reaction

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(HealthDay News) -- Latex is found in a number of common objects -- ranging from dishwashing gloves to rubber toys. The sanitary gloves that doctors and nurses use also are frequently made of latex.

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If you've got a latex allergy, the American Academy of Family Physicians offers these suggestions to prevent a reaction:

• Figure out which items at home and work are made from latex, and find non-latex items as replacements.
• Be careful around powdered latex gloves and similar products. Even breathing in the powder can be harmful.
• In a medical situation -- whether you're a worker or patient -- make sure that you or others than you come in contact with wear non-latex gloves.
• Carry a medical alert bracelet, necklace, or key chain that notes your allergy.
• Ask your doctor if you should carry an emergency epinephrine injection with you.

-- Diana Kohnle