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

    Severe Asthma Often Comes With Other Serious Health Problems

    Five New Year's Resolutions to Help You Breathe Easier

    Mothers' Milk Might Be Key To Avoiding Childhood Food Allergies

    Pediatric Allergy Specialist: Feed Babies Allergenic Foods Earlier, Not Later

    Scientists' Push For a Universal Vaccine Takes a Key Step Forward

    Severe Asthma Often Comes With Other Serious Health Problems

    Inhaler Overuse Linked To Heart Risks In Asthma And COPD Patients

    Race Linked To Increased Asthma Severity In Black Children

    Antibiotics Won't Help Ease Asthma-Linked Wheezing in Kids

    Clean Indoor Air Key To Preventing Asthma Attacks

    Moderna’s mRNA Flu Vaccine Back Under FDA Review

    Nasal Spray Flu Vaccines Create 'Battlefield' In Adults' Noses

    Sepsis, Lung Infection Patients See No Benefit From Remote Monitoring

    Could a High-Dose Flu Shot Lower Your Alzheimer's Risk?

    52 Kids Have Died From Flu So Far This Season as Child Hospitalizations Rise