Poison Ivy: What Can Help?
What is poison ivy?
Poison ivy is a common plant that can cause a rash when your skin comes in contact with the plant’s oil. The rash is often seen in a line where the plant touched the skin. The plant has three leaves coming from a central stem. Remember: “Leaves of three, let it be!” There can be small white flowers in the spring, red/orange leaves in the fall, and greenish white, pale yellow, or tan berries.
How can I avoid poison ivy?
- Know what the plant looks like and keep an eye out for it. See photos at: http://plants.usda.gov/java/profile?symbol=tora2. Avoid contact with the plant.
- Get rid of the plant when you can. Plants should be carefully pulled out by their roots, or you can use an approved herbicide. Wear protective clothing and a mask.
- Do not burn the plants. Burning releases the oil into the air and it can get into your lungs or onto your skin and clothing.
- There is little proof that available barrier products help prevent the oil from contacting your skin. If you use one, apply to any exposed skin before you go out in nature. Use and reapply as directed. Wash skin at the end of exposure to remove barrier product and any plant oil.
What should I do if I come in contact with poison ivy?
- Wash affected skin with plain soap and water. Rinse with lots of water if no soap is available. No need to scrub vigorously or use harsh soaps.
- There is no good proof that special poison ivy cleansers work better than soap.
- Wash all your clothing separately. Wash everything that may have contacted the plant: garden tools, golf clubs, leash, pet’s fur, etc.
- Have a shower initially, not a bath as baths can spread the oil.
- Oil can spread from skin or objects, but not from rash or blisters.
- Cut fingernails and clean under nails well to eliminate any plant oil.
What should I do if I develop a rash from poison ivy?
- Try not to scratch as this can worsen the rash and maybe cause an infection.
- Use cool compresses for comfort.
- Relieve itching with a short lukewarm bath containing colloidal oatmeal (e.g., Aveeno) or baking soda (one cup in bathwater). You can also try applying calamine lotion.
- Avoid topical antihistamines and antibiotics, as these do not seem to help.
When should I see my prescriber about poison ivy?
You should contact to your prescriber if you have a rash or swelling on your face, eyes, genitals; or if the rash covers a large portion of your body. Also see your prescriber if the rash affects a child less than two years old, there are signs of infection or lots of large blisters, if your home treatment is not working after seven days, or if you have severe swelling or itching.
[This handout may not cover all possible information. It does not replace the need for professional medical care. Always follow the instructions from your healthcare provider.][August 2017; 330806]