Poison ivy is responsible for triggering skin rashes among children during spring, summer and fall. An allergic reaction to the oil (urushiol) produced by the plant triggers the rash. It is important to note that the rash develops several hours up to 3 days after being exposed and starts as blisters accompanied by intense itchiness.
Despite to the popular belief, it is not the fluid in the blisters responsible for the spread of the rashes. The rash spreads if small amounts of the oil remain under the fingernails, on clothing or on the fur of pets. The rash does not spread to another individual unless the oil remains in contact with the skin of the individual.
How to identify poison ivy
Poison ivy is characterized as a 3-leafed green weed with a red stem at the middle. It grows with a vine-like form with 7-13 leaves arranged as pairs along a middle stem.
Management
The reactions to poison ivy is usually done in a straightforward manner.
- Prevention is the ideal approach by being familiar with the characteristics of the plant.
- If exposed, wash all clothes and shoes with water and soap. Cleanse the area that was exposed using soap and water for at least 10 minutes after touching the plant.
- For mild cases of eruption, apply calamine lotion 3-4 times throughout the day to reduce the itchiness.
- Hydrocortisone cream can be applied to reduce the inflammation.
- For severe cases, especially on the face or covering extensive parts of the body, the doctor might prescribe oral steroids that are taken for 6-10 days, often with the dosage tapering in a specific schedule.
When to consult a doctor
If any of the following are present, a doctor must be consulted right away:
- Fever
- Severe eruption of rashes that does not respond to previously used home remedies
- Severe rashes on the face
- Any evidence of infection such as redness, blisters or oozing
- Any new eruption or rash