Best Treatment of Poison Ivy to Relieve Itchy Rash

Knowing the treatment of poison ivy and poisonous oak rashes is crucial, especially since summer is approaching. The best form of defense is learning as well as teaching your kids to avoid and identify dangerous plants.

The majority of people (approximately 85%) get an itchy, blistering rash when the oil from these plants comes into contact with their skin. Although the rash itself is not communicable, if the oil is not removed right after coming in contact with the plants, it can spread to other parts of the body and from one person to another.

Fortunately, people can safely use the treatment of poison ivy rash at home by following a few easy procedures. This article discusses how to treat mild symptoms at home, when to seek urgent care, and how to avoid coming into contact with the plant.

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What is Poison Ivy?

Poison ivy is a poisonous plant that is very prevalent in the majority of the US. Poison ivy frequently grows low to the ground and can also develop into a taller vine that climbs up other plants, trees, or poles.

Each variant has a stem with three leaves. As the seasons change, so do the leaves. White blooms or berries could come from them.

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How Does Poison Ivy Spread?

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, poison ivy releases an oil called urushiol that results in a rash in roughly 85% of those who come into touch with it.

Nothing else will result in a rash. This is because the oil causes a skin reaction that leads to a rash. The oil itself, though, can spread to other people.

It is crucial to know the treatment of poison ivy to get relief from itchy rash. (Image via Unsplash/ Alyani Yang)

Urushiol is persistent and will adhere to practically anything, including your clothing and shoes, camping and gardening gear, and even the coats of your animals or horses.

It can spread to other people by transferring to and from your hands, your phone, or anything else you touch. Moreover, it can be found almost anywhere in the plant, including the roots, stems, and leaves.

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What is the Best Treatment of Poison Ivy?

A rash is the primary sign of being infected with poison ivy, and there are many types of rashes. It could show up immediately or one to two days following contact. It is characterized by swelling and redness, and tiny blisters might develop and hurt or itch. However, remember to avoid picking at the blisters. Your fingernail-borne bacteria may enter blisters and lead to an illness.

Here are some of the best cures for poison ivy:

The best method is to prevent problems. Recognize the plant's appearance and instruct your kids to stay away from it.

Wash all clothing and shoes in soap and water if there has been contact. Moreover, after touching the plant or the oil, wash the exposed area of the skin with soap and water for at least ten minutes.

Best treatment of poison ivy includes staying away from it. (Image via Unsplash/ Kelli Tungay)

Use calamine lotion three to four times daily for a minor eruption to lessen itching. Avoid medications that contain anesthetics or antihistamines because they frequently trigger allergic reactions on their own. A rash may worsen to the point where a doctor’s visit is necessary.

If you observe any of these signs, you should get in touch with your healthcare practitioner:

• If none of the previously mentioned treatment of poison ivy rash doesn’t work
• Facial rash that is quite bad
• Fever Infection warning signs like oozing
• You can't sleep at night because of the itch
• You have previously experienced very serious poison ivy reactions

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How to Avoid Poison Ivy Rash?

Knowing what poison ivy, poison oak, or poison sumac looks like and staying away from them is undoubtedly the best treatment of poison ivy. Beyond that, if you reside in a region where the plants are endemic, there are a few helpful pointers you should keep in mind.

The most effective barrier is clothing. If plants are known to grow in dense bushes, wear pants, socks, and boots. If contact happens, carefully remove your clothing and wash it right away. When pulling weeds, wear vinyl gloves as rubber gloves can be penetrated by urushiol.