Health Tips for April 19

Health Tip: Living With Latex Allergy

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.

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.

Health Tip: Getting Answers About Allergy Shots

If you have allergies and are tired of battling their symptoms, you should ask your doctor about allergy shots.

The American Academy of Family Physicians offers this information about allergy shots:

• Allergy shots are often effective against pollen allergies, eye allergies, allergies to bee stings and allergic reactions to some medications.
• Pregnant women should not start taking allergy shots, but might be able to keep taking them if the shots began before pregnancy.
• People with bad asthma or heart problems usually shouldn't get allergy shots.
• Children under age 5 usually shouldn't get allergy shots.
• Initially, allergy shots are given once or twice a week. Eventually, the frequency will drop to about once a month.
• It may take at least six months to get relief from symptoms after you begin allergy shots.