Mercy Iowa City Poison Ivy And Poison Oak

Poison Ivy And Poison Oak

The three most common causes of allergic reaction in the United States are poison ivy, poison sumac, and poison oak. These plants are all a type of weed. All three, poison ivy, poison sumac, and poison oak, grow throughout the United States.

Contact with these plants causes a rash called allergic contact dermatitis. These plants release a sap that contains poisonous oils. The poisonous oil spreads to objects that contact the plant. It penetrates skin quickly and causes a rash within 12 to 48 hours. The first reaction produces normally a rash along a line, with redness and swelling. Blisters and severe itching follow these symptoms. In a few days, the blisters become crusted and begin to scale. The dermatitis usually heals within ten days.

Begin treatment within 5-10 minutes, if possible, by washing all exposed areas in cool running water and soap. Doing so will keep the poisonous oil from spreading to other parts of the body. All items worn or carried when exposed to the poisonous plants should be removed and washed with soap and water when a stream, lake, or garden hose is reached. Water deactivates and neutralizes the poisonous oil and keeps it from spreading.

Cool compresses and cool showers will ease the itching. Baking soda baths will help dry the lesions. Over-the-counter preparations, like calamine lotion, will relieve mild rashes. Talk with a pharmacist or healthcare provider if itching is severe or rash becomes infected.

The best prevention is to recognize these plants and stay away from them. The old saying, "leaves of three, let them be," is sometimes reliable, but beware. The appearance of these plants can vary considerably. Poison ivy grows as a low shrub or as a vine. Poison oak is a low shrub or small tree and has groups of yellow berries. Poison sumac is a group of tall shrubs with cream-colored berries which is green in the summer and red in the fall.

The poisonous oil from these plants can remain active for months, so be sure to wash all camping, fishing, or hunting gear, and pets that might be carrying it, too.

If you have further questions or would like to make an appointment with a physician, contact Mercy On Call, 358-2767 or 800-358-2767.

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