Manhood Health Primer: Signs of a Latex Allergy

When the savvy guy engages in any penetrative sensual activity, he does it the right way – by wearing a protective device. Taking care to avoid socially shared infections is a key component of excellent member care, and most men are very astute in this regard. However, there are some cases where a man does the responsible thing, slips on a protective device, and then pays a strange price later – the itching, burning, swelling, rashing and other symptoms that indicate a latex allergy. How can a man be expected to maintain a healthy male organ if he can’t use the protection necessary to ensure that good health? Here’s what he needs to know.

What’s a latex allergy?

Latex is a natural substance derived from the rubber tree. It is used in a huge variety of products, but some of the most well-known are medical gloves (used in all medical settings) as well as protective devices. Because latex can be stretched incredibly thin but still retain the ability to stop even the smallest of germs from passing through, it makes sense that it’s a perfect product to use for making barrier protections.

A latex allergy is just that – it’s an allergy to latex. For some, this allergy is extremely severe and shows up the moment they allow latex to touch their skin. For others, it takes time and repeated exposure to develop an allergy. That’s why some men can use latex barrier devices without problem for months or years, but then they suddenly develop the symptoms of a latex allergy. For some, the initial reaction to latex might not appear for 48 to 96 hours after exposure, so it makes sense that it might be tough to narrow it down to latex.

Symptoms

A latex allergy usually shows up with the same type of symptoms. These include a ring of rash near the base of the member, where the protective device was sealed tightly; a swollen and red member tip, where the device pressed during activity; raised blisters on the member that might be itchy; swollen skin anywhere the protection touched, including fingers, hands and perhaps even thighs or the lips (if the protective device came into contact with the mouth).

Those who suffer a severe reaction to latex might immediately have a runny nose and stinging eyes, as well as sneezing and other upper respiratory problems. They might suddenly find it tough to breathe or feel as though their chest is tight. Those who suffer a reaction like this should get to the hospital immediately, as these are the first signs of anaphylactic shock.

Treatment and prevention

When a man has a confirmed latex allergy, he will be treated just as if the allergy is to anything else. This might include a course of steroid therapy. A doctor will run tests to make sure the latex allergy is the culprit, and will then counsel the patient on what he needs to do to avoid the problem in the future.

Of course, avoidance is often the best option for those with an allergy like this. That means a man will need to look for protective devices that do not contain latex. Often known as “natural” protective devices, there are some on the market that claim to be hypoallergenic. Other types of plastic protections, such as those made of polyurethane, often provide adequate protection without the worries that come along with the use of latex.

No matter a man’s choice in protective devices, he’s doing the right thing by using them each time he engages with a partner. He’s also doing the right thing by reaching for a powerful manhood health crème (health professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil, which is clinically proven mild and safe for skin). When used daily, a crème that contains vitamins C, D and B5, as well as vitamin A for odor control, can help keep his equipment healthy. Shea butter and vitamin E serve as a bonus of hydration that ensures healthy male organ skin, no matter the type of protective device a man chooses to use.

Visit http://www.menshealthfirst.com for additional information on most common manhood health issues, tips on improving member sensitivity and what to do to maintain a healthy male organ. John Dugan is a professional writer who specializes in men's health issues and is an ongoing contributing writer to numerous websites.