How to Care for a Poison Ivy Rash

Avoiding contact with poison ivy plants is the best way to prevent a rash.

A poison ivy rash occurs when the skin comes into contact with the urushiol oil found in certain plants. The oil creates an allergic reaction in the skin, which results in red and itchy bumps. The bumps may swell and leak a harmless clear fluid. Poison ivy is not contagious and cannot be spread from scratching the infected area. Left untreated, a poison ivy rash will generally subside in 14-21 days. Treatment is thus aimed at controlling the itch and easing any pain or discomfort that accompanies the rash.

Things You'll Need

• Oral antihistamines (optional)
• Cortisone cream (optional)
• Hot or cold compress (optional)
• Over-the-counter pain medication (optional)

Instructions

1. 

   Wash the affected area with soap and water as soon as possible after contact with a poison ivy plant.

2. 

   Take an oral antihistamine such as Benadryl as soon as possible after a poison ivy rash begins.

3. 

   Apply cortisone cream to the affected area. This helps dry out the rash and relieve itching.

4. 

   Apply a hot or cold compress to the affected area to relieve discomfort.

5. 

   Take an over-the-counter pain medicine to relieve any pain.

6. 

   Contact your doctor if the rash persists for more than three weeks, or if you experience severe pain, discomfort, or difficulty breathing.

7. 

   Continue at-home treatment until the rash subsides.

Tips & Warnings

• Avoid scratching the rash as this can cause bacteria from your fingernails to infect the area and prolong healing. Taking a hot shower may temporarily help relieve some of the pain or discomfort. Washing any clothing that may have had contact with a poison ivy plant may help you avoid re-infection.

• Contact your doctor prior to taking any medications for a poison ivy rash. Monitor your rash symptoms carefully to ensure that the rash is healing appropriately.

References

• Medicinenet

Resources

• Poison Ivy Facts