4 Ways to Treat Poison Ivy

1. Be Overcautious of Exposure

The best way to treat poison ivy is to avoid exposure altogether. It grows in the Midwest and on the East Coast of the United States, in wet areas near rivers and streams. Though it is often a vine, it can also appear as a trailing shrub or a standalone shrub. Its leaves grow in clusters of three to nine, and its stems have a reddish quality to them. Learn to spot poison ivy around your home, and always wear heavy clothes when you're outside walking. Bathe pets and children if you think they have come into contact with urushiol oil, and clean any clothes thoroughly afterwards. The same holds true for tools, balls and toys that might have the oil on them. It will save a lot of discomfort in the long run.

2. Treat the Symptoms Quickly

If you know or suspect that you have been exposed to poison ivy, you should act as soon as possible to treat it. If you can get the urushiol oil off your body within 10 to 30 minutes, you may prevent the outbreak of the rash. Before you go inside, clean your skin with rubbing alcohol and wash it with water. Then clean any clothes or tools that have come into contact with the poison ivy, using hot water in the laundry and alcohol to clean the tools. Take a shower or bath using soap or warm water once you have gone inside. Pay special attention to your hands, which can spread urushiol oil to anything you touch. Use a brush to scrub under your fingernails and make sure all of the oil is gone.

3. Use Topical Medication to Reduce Symptoms

If you're not able to remove the urushiol oil before it sets in, poison ivy symptoms will begin to appear 1 to 3 days after exposure. Your skin will become red and irritated, and the affected area may suffer from swelling as well. Blisters often develop, and while the fluids from blisters won't spread the rash, constant scratching will. Treat the affected area with corticosteroids, calamine lotion or other medications designed to reduce itching. Heat and dryness often contribute to itching as well. You can fight that by taking a cold bath or by applying cold compresses to the affected area. A colloidal oatmeal bath can help retain moisture in mild cases as well. Above all, avoid the urge to scratch the rash, no matter how tempting it may be.

4. Take Antihistamines or Prescription Medication

If topical medication doesn't bring any relief, you can look into oral antihistamines, which can be purchased over the counter and may reduce the symptoms of poison ivy. In addition, a physician can prescribe more serious medication, such as oral or injected steroids. This is recommended in cases where the poison ivy rash is on your face or in similar sensitive areas. Always talk to a doctor before taking any kind of medication, and tell him if you are using medicine to treat any other conditions.