I hope I am doing this right. If not, I know you will let me know. I
had a severe allergic reaction while at the dentist about seven or
eight years ago. I left the office and in a matter of minutes I had
broken out in hives, and my lips and eyes were almost swollen shut. I
went to an allergist and they determined I was allergic to latex. I
carry an EpiPen but have never had to use it. I have visited the
emergency room a couple of times. After talking to my doctor, I
realized I had several other incidents and did not realize it. I used
to be a hairdresser and my hands were in water all the time and the
chemicals I used caused infections. I was advised by a doctor to wear
latex gloves, which I did for about a year. When wearing the gloves
my hands became red and itchy. I thought I was allergic to the
chemicals I used. Also, when I ate bananas my mouth and lips burned.
When I blew up balloons for my son's birthday, my lips became very
swollen. I have since changed professions and teach elementary
school. I do my best to avoid latex. I do not use pencils with
erasers or the pens with the rubber guards on them. My school nurse
now uses latex free gloves and has latex free band aids for me. Our
janitorial staff uses vinyl gloves as well. Balloons are still
everywhere but not in my class! I have never had any problems with
airborne latex but just walking into a doctor's office or in a room
with balloons make me very very anxious.