TDC Health News

As summer approaches and you begin to garden, camp, or hike, be on the lookout for poison ivy. Poison oak, sumac, and ivy all contain oil called uroshiol. When this oil comes in contact with the skin, an allergic reaction may develop. A person can come in contact with the oil by direct, indirect, or airborne contact. Direct contact involves touching the poison ivy plant. Indirect contact involves touching anything that has the uroshiol oil on it such as a pet, gardening tool, or a ball. Airborne contact comes from the oil being burned which releases the oil into the air.

The saying "leaves of three, let it be" references how to identify poison ivy. The ivy grows as a vine with leaflets of 3 leaves. The middle leaf usually has a longer stalk than the other two leaves.

When exposed to the oil in poison ivy, it penetrates the skin within minutes. The rash can develop over the next 12 to 24 hours. The rash appears as linear blisters that are intensely itchy where the body has come in contact with the oil. It may progress and appear to spread to other parts of the body. Although the rash rarely develops after the first exposure to poison ivy, 85% of people will develop a rash upon subsequent exposures. With each exposure, the rash will occur sooner and more intensely.

Avoiding contact with poison ivy is the best way to prevent developing the rash. Long sleeves and pants may also help prevent exposure to poison ivy. If this is not possible, it is important to recognize the plant and wash the skin off immediately. Also, it is important to wash any clothing, pets, or tools that may come in contact with poison ivy.

If you develop a poison ivy rash that is mild, over the counter anti-itch products may be helpful. When this fails, or if the rash is more severe, prescription medication prescribed by your dermatologist may be necessary to relieve the itch and get rid of the rash.