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Warning-sign checks

Allergy to natural rubber: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Seek emergency help for trouble breathing, throat or tongue swelling, fainting, confusion, collapse, or rapidly worsening symptoms after possible latex exposure.

    Use prescribed epinephrine without delay when the action plan indicates it, then call emergency services because symptoms can return after initial improvement.

    And for anyone, someone who:

    • is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Contact a clinician promptly if reactions are becoming more frequent, asthma or wheezing is occurring with exposure, dermatitis is persistent or infected, or a new medical or dental procedure is planned.

    New food reactions should also be assessed rather than managed through broad food avoidance.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Routine follow-up may be appropriate with a primary care clinician, allergist, dermatologist, or occupational health professional.

    Follow-up can review test results, workplace or household exposures, skin care, and preparation for future procedures.

The article also says

People prescribed epinephrine should periodically review their action plan and injection technique.

They should also check expiration dates and discuss how many devices to have available based on their clinician’s advice.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Allergy to natural rubber. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.