Penis sensitivity is one of the reasons why stimulation of the penis is so effective. The skin is very thin and filled with nerve endings – but that thinness also leaves it prone to the development of a penis rash. Penis health practitioners know that determining the cause of the penis rash is important. For some men, that cause may be latex. But interestingly enough, men with a latex allergy may also have a food allergy that needs to be taken into consideration.
Latex allergy is real
Although it is sometimes joked about, latex allergy is indeed a real thing and can have an impact upon those who regularly use latex condoms. Both men and women can be affected by such an allergic reaction. While statistics are hard to come by, it is estimated that between 1% and 3% of American men and women have a reaction to latex. (In some subcategories, the percentage is higher. For example, about 6%-7% of people who come into contact regularly with latex in their working lives develop an allergy to it.)
Reactions
So what happens when a man with a latex allergy wears a latex condom? That really depends upon how allergic the man is, on the amount of latex in the condom and on the length of time the condom is worn.
The most common reaction is the appearance of a penis rash, often severe, and typically presenting within 6-48 hours after exposure. The rash is frequently a source of considerable itchiness as well. The skin of the affected area may become quite dry and eczema may develop as the reaction progresses. In some extreme cases, welting or blistering may appear, which can be quite uncomfortable and very worrisome.
But more alarming – and thankfully rarer – is wheezing or difficulty breathing, often accompanied by scratchiness in the throat and possibly with nausea. This may indicate anaphylactic shock. Again, such situations are rare with latex allergies, but they can occur. Anyone who suspects this is the case should consult with a doctor immediately, as this can be quite dangerous.
Diet
The latex allergy is caused by a certain protein within the latex. The reason why a man with a latex allergy may also have a food allergy is because that same protein is found in some foods. The most likely culprits to contain this protein are:
– Tomatoes
– Chestnuts
– Kiwi fruits
– Bananas
– Avocados
A man with a strong latex allergy should limit his exposure to these foods, as well as to foods in which they are main ingredients. For example, avocados are the primary ingredient in guacamole. Marinara sauce is primarily tomatoes. Working with an allergist to determine how much of these foods may be safely consumed is advisable if a known latex allergy is present.
Of course, men still need to find alternatives to latex condoms as well. Fortunately, there are other options out there. Probably the most widely available is a polyurethane condom. Some form of protection is needed, both to avoid unwanted pregnancy and to protect against STIs.
A penis rash from a latex allergy without open welts, blisters or sores may respond to use of a top drawer penis health crème (health professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil, which is clinically proven mild and safe for skin) . While such a crème cannot treat an allergy, it can provide soothing treatment for skin stressed from a penis rash and resultant dry skin. Be sure to find a crème that is a potent moisturizer, which means it should include both a natural hydrator (such as vitamin E) and a high-end emollient (Shea butter is one of the best). The crème should also be packed with vitamin D, the “miracle vitamin” that fights disease and helps maintain healthy penile cellular function.
