“Every time I use condoms or rubber gloves I get itching, redness and swelling — could I be allergic to latex?”

LATEX ALLERGY causes immediate (IgE-mediated, type I) reactions on latex contact — itching, redness, urticaria, angioedema (swelling) and potentially ANAPHYLAXIS — from condoms, rubber gloves, balloons and similar, and must be distinguished from a delayed (type IV) contact dermatitis to rubber-accelerator chemicals (eczematous, 24–48h). Take a history (which products, immediacy/severity, systemic features, occupational exposure — ask her job — atopy) and recognise RISK GROUPS: healthcare workers, people with spina bifida or multiple surgeries (repeated latex exposure), and atopic individuals. Ask about and advise on the LATEX-FRUIT cross-reactivity syndrome — banana, avocado, kiwi, chestnut and others — which can cause allergic reactions. Arrange confirmation/referral to allergy/immunology where indicated (specific IgE/skin-prick testing), and critically ASSESS ANAPHYLAXIS risk: where there is a history of or risk of systemic reactions, provide an emergency action plan, with an adrenaline auto-injector decided with the allergy service (two in-date devices if prescribed, MHRA Drug Safety Update June 2023; specialist allergy referral after any anaphylaxis, NICE NG258 2026), and ensure the patient informs healthcare providers/dentists before procedures so a latex-free environment is used. Manage with strict AVOIDANCE and latex-free alternatives (polyurethane/polyisoprene condoms, nitrile gloves), advise informing employers (who must control exposure under COSHH 2002), dentists and healthcare providers and a MedicAlert, and for CONTRACEPTION offer non-latex condoms (explaining slightly higher slippage/breakage and emergency contraception) or an alternative method so the patient is not reliant on latex (CoSRH) — documenting the allergy clearly (NICE CG183) and telling the cervical screening sample-taker. The skill is recognising latex allergy, avoidance/cross-reactivity advice, anaphylaxis-risk assessment/planning, allergy referral and practical alternatives.