If you are a parent, then you know that one of the worst things about being a parent is dealing with diaper rash. Diaper rash can flare up for a variety of reasons, such as when the skin of your child is wet or irritated from poop and pee.
But did you know that a child can also have a latex allergy that causes diaper rash? If your child has been diagnosed with a latex allergy, here are some tips to help prevent and treat diaper rash.
What is latex and what causes allergies to it?
Latex comes from the bark of a rubber tree. When exposed to a latex product like gloves made of latex, some dental products, rubber bands, rubber toys, and other latex items, some people develop an allergic reaction. When a child is sensitive to latex, their immune systems will combat it like a poisonous substance.
A latex allergy occurs when your immune system identifies latex as a harmful substance and releases antibodies to combat it. Your immune system releases histamine and other chemicals into your bloodstream when you have direct contact with any products that contain latex, causing a range of allergy symptoms. Your immune system is likely to respond more strongly to latex the more often you are exposed. This is known as sensitization.
Individuals who are constantly exposed to gloves with latex and medical latex products will have a higher risk of developing an allergy. Among those who are at risk are health care workers.
What is the best way to treat latex allergy?
An allergy to latex has no cure. Avoiding skin contact with latex is the best thing you can do if your child is allergic to it. In the event that your child does experience a negative response, the treatment will be determined by how severe the response is. Seek immediate medical attention if the reaction is severe.
Children should avoid latex products and replace them with something that is made from either silicone or plastic. If you are a parent, use non-latex gloves when around your children.
Let your child wear a latex allergy alert bracelet or another type of identification if she has an allergy to latex. If your child’s healthcare provider or doctor recommends it, you may also need to carry two injectable epinephrine shots.
What are the signs of a child’s latex allergy?
You will likely see signs in your baby after she touches latex rubber products, like gloves and balloons, if she is allergic to latex. Symptoms can also occur if she breathes in latex particles that are released into the air when latex gloves are removed.
Latex allergy symptoms vary from mild symptoms to more severe reactions. The amount of latex you touch or inhale can affect how you react to it. With more latex exposure, you may have a worse reaction. Here are some of the symptoms to look out for:
- Difficulty breathing
- Itchy and watery eyes
- Runny nose
- Skin redness
- Scratchy throat
- Hives or skin rash
Anaphylaxis, which can be deadly, is the most serious reaction to latex. High-sensitivity individuals tend to develop anaphylactic reactions immediately after latex exposure, but it rarely occurs the first time.
- Wheezing and difficulty breathing
- Hives or swelling on one part of the body
- Dizziness, confusion, and loss of consciousness
- Nausea and vomiting
- A sudden drop in blood pressure
- Rapid or weak pulse
If you notice any signs of anaphylactic shock, seek emergency medical attention.
Your doctor should be contacted if your child develops signs of a less severe allergic reaction after being exposed to latex. Your doctor can make a better diagnosis if your child still has a negative reaction.
What foods should we avoid?
Despite not containing latex, many foods have the same proteins found in natural rubber latex. They contain these proteins can cause allergic reactions in people with latex allergies.
They must be avoided by anyone who has latex allergies. Many children have allergies to both the foods and latex. Here are some of the foods that should be avoided:
- Citrus fruits
Can an allergic reaction to latex lead to diaper rash?
Allergy to latex causes diaper rashes that are red, shiny, and tend to appear over large areas, such as the genitals, buttocks, abdomen, and thighs. In general, you will see it anywhere and everywhere diapers and wipes come in contact with or where other products are used.
If your child takes medicine, make sure to look for signs of other allergies. And once the diaper rash appears, make sure to treat it right away. Whether you are using disposable diapers or cloth diapers for your child, you should change them immediately. And apply cream or ointment in between diaper changes.
Does a latex allergy cause diaper rash?
Little children are often sensitive to latex, which can cause a diaper rash. A baby’s skin is very sensitive and can easily become irritated. This can lead to a painful and unsightly diaper rash. If you think your child may have a latex allergy, it is important to see your child’s healthcare provider right away. Early diagnosis is key in preventing further irritation and discomfort.