For treating poison ivy exposure and rash, follow these steps:
- Immediately wash the skin with soap and lukewarm water to remove the plant's oil (urushiol), which causes the allergic reaction. Scrub under fingernails as well
- Remove and wash contaminated clothing and items such as gloves, shoes, and garden tools to prevent further exposure
- Apply topical treatments to soothe itching and inflammation:
- Over-the-counter cortisone creams or hydrocortisone cream
- Calamine lotion
- Creams containing menthol
- Topical astringents like aluminum acetate solutions for weeping blisters
- Take cool baths or apply cool, wet compresses to the affected areas. Adding oatmeal or baking soda to the bath can help relieve itching
- Use oral antihistamines such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl) to reduce itching and help with sleep, though they may not always be effective for the rash itself
- Avoid scratching to prevent infection and worsening of the rash. Keep fingernails trimmed short
- Seek medical care if :
- The rash is severe, widespread, or covers sensitive areas like face, genitals, or mouth
- There is fever, pus, yellow scabs, or signs of infection
- The rash worsens despite home treatment
- You have difficulty breathing or swelling
- Prevent future exposure by learning to identify poison ivy, wearing protective clothing outdoors, washing pets that may have contacted the plant, and carefully removing poison ivy plants from your yard without burning them (to avoid inhaling toxic smoke)
These measures can help reduce symptoms and speed healing, which typically takes a few weeks
