Primary Care Practice
POISON IVY, POISON OAK AND POISON SUMAC
Poison ivy, oak and sumac cause a rash on exposed parts of the body that come in contact with any part of these plants.  It can occur anytime of the year.  The skin must usually come in contact with the plant oil for several hours to cause a reaction.

The rash may begin within 4 hours of exposure up to several days after contact. It usually appears as clusters of small blisters or pimples on reddened skin.  The blisters may leak a fluid which can dry and crust.  The rash may itch intensely. The rash usually heals in 10-14 days

Contact with the skin from the plant oil can be directly, on other objects such as clothing or pets or through the air such as in smoke from burning  the plants.

Poison ivy, oak and sumac look different in different parts of the country.  Become familiar with the species of your area and try to avoid them.

About half the people in the US are sensitive to these plants.  Approximately 10% of the US population is totally immune to the plants.  Many people can develop a sensitivity after repeated exposure.  In other words, if you have never been allergic to the plants in the past does not mean you won’t in the future.

Treatment:

  • Wash off with mild soap soon after potential/actual exposure.  Rubbing alcohol may also be used.  Do not use pre moistened towelettes, this will only spread the oil.
  • Wash anything that might be spreading the oil- animals, gloves, clothing.
  • Cool compresses with water, oatmeal or vinegar water.
  • Topical lotions- caladryl, calamine
  • Trim nails short
  • Over the counter antihistamines- Benadryl
  • Barriers to prevent exposure- Stoko Gard Outdoor Cream, Ivy Block.


When to come to the office:

  • Rash spreads to face or hands
  • Any sign of infection such as colored drainage from rash, swelling, redness, fever.
  • At the office, your provider will probably try to suppress the rash with some form of steroid treatment.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Primary Care Practice, P.C.
1394 Hatcher Lane
Columbia, TN
(931) 490-0006 Voice
(931) 490-0042 Fax

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