Poison oak, which is often associated with poison ivy or sumac, is a type of shrub found primarily on the West Coast of the United States. This plant contains a natural oil called urushiol that can cause a severe allergic reaction when it comes in contact with a person's skin, explains the American Academy of Dermatology, AAD. A person who develops a severe reaction as a side effect of touching poison oak may need to seek additional care from a medical professional.
Intense Itching
People exposed to poison oak can develop sensations of intense itching across the affected skin as a side effect, warns Drugs.com, a peer-reviewed health information website. Itching can cause people to scratch at the affected skin site, which can further irritate the skin. People should avoid scratching the skin to limit the risk of developing a skin infection.
Skin Rash
Health officials at the AAD report that approximately 85 percent of people who come in contact with poison oak develop an allergic reaction to urushiol. Allergic reaction side effects typically include a patchy, red rash that develops across the region of skin that was exposed to poison oak. The affected skin can also appear swollen or puffy, explains the University of Virginia Health System in Charlottesville. Uncomfortable rash symptoms can persist for up to three weeks after exposure to poison oak.
Blisters
Initially, small, red bumps may appear across skin affected by poison oak. These small bumps may form larger, fluid-filled blisters across the skin that burst and crust over. Skin blister side effects from poison oak can vary in severity and may be worst four to seven days following poison oak exposure, warns Drugs.com. Patients who develop skin blisters across the face or near the genital region after exposure to poison oak should seek medical care.
