Poison Oak Facts
A walk in the park, a serene picnic or a backyard barbecue can be ruined if poison oak is contracted. It is easily spread and can be very uncomfortable and contagious. Recognize the leaves, and you may just save some discomfort. Does this Spark an idea?
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The Rash
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Urushiol is the chemical that causes the poison oak rash. This chemical is found on the leaves, on the branches and on the roots of a poison oak plant. When touched, the oil is absorbed in the skin. The body's natural reaction is to fight off the poisonous substance, and a rash emerges.
Transference
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Poison oak is transferred by touching a poison oak plant or any part of the plant. It also can be contracted if you pet a dog that has roamed through poison oak. If your clothes come in contact with poison oak, you can also be affected.
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Burning
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Do not burn poison oak. Some can catch a posion oak rash just from the burning fumes.
Scratching
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Once a poison oak rash appears on the skin, the person is no longer contagious. Scratching will not spread the rash, but it can make it prone to infection.
Prevention
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Wash all clothes, towels, sheets and blankets after a hike or picnic, especially if you came in contact with poison oak. Take a shower as soon as possible. If you have poison oak in your yard, it is best to have a professional tree or landscaping company remove it.
Treatment
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The rash and discomfort usually lasts about two weeks. Some find relief with calamine lotion and hydrocortisone creams. Extreme cases should be treated by a doctor.
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