How to Diagnose and Treat Poison Ivy

Poison Ivy, Poison Oak, and Poison Sumac are all plants that may cause an itchy rash. Around 80% of people will have a reaction when they come in contact with on of these, but the severity of the rash depends on the individual.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Baking Soda
• Epsom Salt
• Creams with alcohol

1. 
   Poison Ivy

   Poison ivy and poison oak typically have three leaves per stem, but may have more than three leaves. (So the old adage "leaves three, leave be" could help). Poison sumac has a longer stem with 7-13 leaves. These plants appear different depending on their location and the season. If at any time you come in contact with one of these plants, you may become susceptible to a rash. First, learn to identify the plants and avoid exposing your skin to them.

2. If you come in contact, wash your skin as soon as possible. Remove the toxic sap.

3. If a rash forms, you may have small red bumps that itch, and I mean bad! Trying to stop the itching is half of the problem.

4. You can make a paste from baking soda and water then apply it to the affected area. Let it dry. When bathing, put Epsom salt into the water. This will help dry the area.

5. During the day, treat the area with a cream that contains alcohol for drying. Ask a pharmacist which one will work best. It may take several days for the application to dry up the area.

6. If the rash spreads and you can't get it under control, you will need to visit a physician and get medication.

Tips & Warnings

• Wash the area asap.
• Avoid the plants.
• Only treat the rash yourself for about a week. Poison may get into your system and spread, see a physician.

[judlee]

on 7/13/2009 There is lots of poison ivy in the woods of Minnesota so your article on how to diagnose and treat poison ivy is one I will share with others. Thanks!

[goodselfme]

on 7/8/2009 Good points to diagnosis and treat poison ivy.