Health Tip: Manage Poison Ivy Rash

(HealthDay News) -- If you've been near or touched poison ivy, you may develop an itchy, blistering rash within 12 to 72 hours.

Most everyone reacts to an oil in the poison ivy plant called urushiol. The rash typically goes away on its own in a few weeks, but some people have a more serious reaction that requires a trip to the doctor's or even to the emergency room.

For most of us, the American Academy of Dermatology offers these suggestions for managing a poison ivy rash:

  • Wash your clothing. The oil can adhere to clothing, causing the rash to spread.
  • Wash anything that may have come in contact with the oil.
  • Do not scratch, which can trigger an infection.
  • Take short, lukewarm soapy baths to help fight the itch.
  • Apply calamine lotion or hydrocortisone cream to the rash.
  • After consulting your doctor, take a recommended antihistamine.

    • Date Published: 2/28/2024 4:38:34 AM

    Related Articles

    Search Allergy Articles

    Seasonal Allergies Likely To Grow Worse Under Climate Change

    There's Still Confusion on How to Spot, Treat Severe Allergic Reactions

    Wildfire Smoke Is Choking America's Cities -- Is Yours on the List?

    Planes' Air Ventilation Can't Spread Nut Allergens to Passengers: Study

    FDA Warns Top National Bakery to Stop Listing Allergens in Products When They Aren't There

    Wildfires in Western U.S., Canada Create Hazardous Air Conditions

    Fast, Easy Nasal Swab Helps Diagnose Asthma Type in Kids

    Late-Life Menopause Linked to Higher Asthma Risk

    Exercise in Pregnancy Might Lower Baby's Odds for Asthma Later

    Radon Exposure Linked to Increased Asthma Symptoms in Children

    Many Americans Wary of Vaccines as Fall Flu, COVID Season Looms: Survey

    Simple Paper-Strip Test Might Spot Flu, and Which Type You Have

    The Right Time is Now to Get Your Flu Vaccine

    Local Outbreaks Can Motivate The Vaccine-Hesitant, Poll Finds

    Universal Flu Vaccine Blocks Infection in Mice