Feeling Itchy? It’s poison Ivy time!
Poison Ivy Poison sumac Poison oak
These plants contain an oily substance called URUSHIOL that causes a red, bumpy rash in many people.
If you think you have come into contact with one of these plants, wash with soap and water as quickly as possible. If you do this, you may stop a reaction. If it is longer than that, the oil has already penetrated the skin and washing it will no longer prevent the rash, but it may help reduce the severity.
Treatment Options:
- OTC cortisone cream 2-3 times a day
- Anti-itch lotion such as calamine lotion
- OTC antihistamine such as Benadryl or Zyrtec
- Take an oatmeal bath
But see the doctor if the over the counter products don’t work, blisters are oozing, or if you develop a fever of over 100° F
IvyBlock (ivyblock.com) is the only FDA approved OTC barrier cream. Use like a sunscreen.
The key to preventing that rash is knowing what these plants look like and the avoid them!
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