Poison ivy causes a skin irritation known as contact dermatitis. Symptoms include persistent itching, redness, blisters and a skin rash. About 85 percent of the population develops an allergic reaction to the plant's oil, known as urushiol. The oil is present on the plant's roof, stem, leaf, flower and fruit. Twelve to 72 hours usually pass before symptoms of an allergic reaction are visible. A poison ivy skin rash takes one to three weeks to heal, the Mayo Clinic reports. Home remedies and self-care techniques can help treat poison ivy.
Wash Skin and Launder Items
Wash skin with lukewarm water and soap as soon as a reaction is present. The faster the skin is washed, the less severe the allergic reaction is. Lather the skin with the soap to remove the oil, rinse and repeat several times. Use a soft bristle brush to scrub underneath nails. Cool showers may help relieve itching and discomfort associated with poison ivy, the American Academy of Dermatology suggests. Add a cup oatmeal into cool water and then add the mixture to lukewarm bathwater to relieve itching. Launder all items that may have come in contact with the poison ivy, including bedding, clothing and pet collars.
Use Cool Compresses
Cool compresses relieve itching and discomfort to the skin once blisters and a rash form. HealthyNJ.org suggests mixing together equal parts cool water and cold milk and add several ice cubes. Soak a washcloth or towel into the mixture, ring it out and then apply it to the skin two to three times a day for relief. Use a small table fan to blow over the affected area to dry the skin. Avoid rubbing and scratching the skin, which causes additional irritation.
Dry Blisters
Open blisters may ooze, so keep the blisters dry. Create a paste by mixing oatmeal or baking soda and applying to the open blisters. You also can use witchhazel or even rubbing alcohol, but do not over dry the blisters, Mothernature.com warns. Overuse of these items may cause the blisters to crack and lead to increased itching. Over-the-counter products such as calamine lotion also stop blisters from oozing, cool the skin and decrease itching. Only use calamine until the itching has stopped.
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