Ditch the Itch of Poison Ivy, Oak and Sumac Rashes

Tips for Preventing and Treating the Itchy Rash and Blisters from These Common Plants

It is that time of year again when we all enjoy the great outdoors in Oklahoma.  Sometimes we come into contact with plants that hold poisonous oils. A rash can appear as long a 1-2 weeks after contact with these oils.  The good news is that people can treat the rash at home with symptomatic care.

Preventative Treatment

Prevention is the best treatment!

• “Leaves of three, let them be”
• Wear protective clothing, ie: long shirts, pants, socks, gloves
• Apply Ivy Block or IvyX prior to visiting known areas with toxicodendron plants.
• Immediately wash area of contact with a detergent dish soap like Dawn, ideally within 2 hours after contact.

Rash Presentation

Poison Oak, Ivy and Sumac all present with itchy, red bumps and/or blisters in linear formations where the plant resin comes into contact with the skin.

Home Treatment

For mild, small areas on the body you can try the following treatments at home:

• Oatmeal baths
• cool, wet compresses
• Calamine lotion
• Topical astringents like witch hazel
• Topical itch creams like Benadryl cream, 1% hydrocortisone cream, or Gold Bond cream
• Oral antihistamines like zyrtec, Claritin, Allegra and Benadryl

Medical Treatment

For severe rashes, or rashes involving the face or genitals, seeking medical care is recommended.  The following treatments may be prescribed in addition to the aforementioned home treatments:

• High dose topical steroids
• Oral steroids

We hope you don’t come into contact with these poisonous plants but, if you do, Saving Grace is here to help.  If you have any questions or concerns about a rash from one of these plants, call us, schedule a virtual visit or, for families in the Tulsa and OKC metro areas, schedule an in- home visit.