Q: What should I do if I suspect that my child may be allergic to latex?

A: Ask a doctor to test your child for latex allergy. If your child is diagnosed with a latex protein allergy, be sure to inform all of your child's caregivers (doctors and nurses, dentists, teachers, daycare providers and babysitters, and friends and family members).

Because there is currently no cure for latex allergy, follow these tips for helping your child live comfortably with latex sensitivity:

- If your child is to have any surgical procedures, alert the surgical team of the latex allergy during your preoperative visit so they can plan for a latex-free surgery and postoperative environment.

- Avoid all latex products at home and in the hospital.

- Ask your child's physician to evaluate him/her for pre-medication before surgery to help prevent a reaction.

- Use a Medic-Alert bracelet or necklace.

- Carry a pair of non-latex gloves, information about latex allergies, and/or a note from your child's physician.

- Be sure hospital and school records have a latex allergy alert.

- Teach your child to know and avoid latex products.

- Know what to do in case of an emergency.

- ARA Content