Being allergic to something may not seem like a big deal to some people, but for others it can be life-changing. When someone is diagnosed with an allergy, especially when the allergen (the thing that triggers the allergic reaction in the body) is very common in their environment, they may have to make many lifestyle changes to stay healthy and safe. The first step to treating an allergy is to fully understand what the allergy really is and how to keep yourself safe. So, what is a latex allergy? A latex allergy occurs when the human body decides that latex is a harmful substance and tries to fight it; It causes multiple symptoms and is sometimes very difficult to avoid. Natural rubber latex is found in rubber trees and is a white liquid. According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI), a latex allergy occurs when someone's body reacts to one or more proteins found in latex. (ACAAI) According to experts at the Mayo Clinic, in a latex allergy, the immune system identifies latex as a harmful substance. If you experience wheezing, a runny nose, or anaphylaxis, your immune system stimulates certain cells to produce immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies to fight the latex component (the allergen). The next time you come into contact with latex, IgE antibodies detect it and signal your immune system to release histamine and other chemicals into your bloodstream. The more exposure, the more likely your immune system is to respond to latex (sensitization). These chemicals cause a variety of allergic signs and symptoms. Histamine is partly [sic] responsible for most allergic responses. (ACAAI) Some symptoms of an allergic reaction to latex are as follows: red skin; itchy skin rashes; urticaria; well…… half of the document…… Latex Allergy Association – Creating awareness of latex allergy through education and support. American Latex Allergy Association, [2009?] N. Page Network. November 1, 2011. Cobb, Jr, Albert H. “Latex Allergies and Food Cross-Sensitivity.” Allergy and Family Medicine ~ Dr. Albert Cobb. Allergy and Family Medicine, 2003. N. Pag. Rete. 28 November 2011. "Cross-reactive foods: American Latex Allergy Association". American Latex Allergy Association - Creating awareness of latex allergy through education and support. Ed. Tom Grier. American Latex Allergy Association. N. Page Network. November 1, 2011.More, Daniel. “Latex Allergy: Could You Be Allergic to Latex?” Latex allergy (September 13, 2011). Allergies – Allergy. New York Times, September 13, 2011. Network Page No. November 28, 2011. Staff, Mayo Clinic. "Latex Allergy - MayoClinic.com." Mayo Clinic. Mayo Clinic, November 16, 2011. Network Page No. November 28. 2011.