What is it?

Skin contact with poison ivy, oak or sumac causes a rash. This rash is caused by an oil found in plants, called urushiol (you-ROO-shee-all)

Signs and Symptoms:

• An outbreak of small or large blisters, often forming streaks or lines
• Itchy skin
• Redness or red streaks
• Hives
• Swelling
• Crusting skin (after blisters burst)

Causes:

• Direct contact: touching any part of the poison ivy, oak or sumac plant
• Indirect contact: urishiol can stick to an object: pet fur, garden tools etc
• Airborne contact: inhaling or having skin contact with particles released from burning any of the poisonous plants

Diagnosis:

Dermatologist can diagnose poison ivy, oak or sumac by simply looking at the rash.

Treatment:

• Severe reactions will likely need prescription medicine like a steroid ointment or a steroid pill
• Infections will be prescribed an antibiotic
• At home treatments include
  • Short lukewarm baths
  • Over-the-counter 1% hydrocortisone cream
  • Cool compress on affected area(s)
  • Avoid scratching to prevent infection

FAQs:

• The rash usually lasts 1-3 weeks
• The rash is not contagious and it does not spread unless you keep touching the urushiol oil that is on an object (like a pet’s fur). The rash may keep coming out for days, as it’s often a delayed reaction
• Eyelid swelling may be seen in the case of airborne contact
• Go to the Emergency Room if you have trouble breathing or swallowing