According to Cornell University Medical College, 85 percent of the population will have an allergic reaction following contact with poison oak. The first contact may not cause a rash, but a subsequent one can result in a sensitivity to the toxic urushiol oil that is found in the plants' leaves, stems and roots. This is the same toxin found in poison ivy and sumac. The rash can appear anytime from 12 hours to one week after contact. It shows up as small, itchy pumps which can progress to fluid-filled blisters. The itch from the rash can be intense.
Rinse with Water
It is important to act quickly after contact with poison oak because urushiol penetrates the skin within minutes, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. To minimize the chances of an allergic reaction, the skin needs to be washed with water. This is most effective if done within 15 minutes after contact. If possible, a shower should be taken for a more thorough rinsing. Soap is not necessary. It is also important to wash any clothing worn including shoes, hats and backpacks.
Colloidal Oatmeal Soak
If the itching becomes intolerable after a rash develops, a colloidal oatmeal bath may relieve some of the discomfort. MayoClinic.com recommends a cool temperature water bath with an oatmeal preparation. A packet of colloidal oatmeal is added to the bath water as it fills. Many people find relief after soaking for 30 minutes.
Hydrogen Peroxide
Three percent hydrogen peroxide is helpful if the rash progresses to itchy, moist blisters. The blisters can be rubbed using a cotton swab soaked in the solution. This method often brings relief and helps the area to dry out and heal. If needed, it can be repeated several times a day.
Hot Shower
Another home treatment to relieve itching is a warm or hot shower. The hot water causes the body's cells to release histamines. Initially this causes an increase in itchiness, but then it will give hours of relief and make sleeping through the night easier.
Ice
Ice is another remedy to combat the itch. Cubed or crushed ice wrapped in a wash cloth or applied directly to the skin may bring temporary relief. Treatments can last a few minutes and be repeated throughout the day.
Baking Soda
A cool bath with baking soda or a baking soda paste is another option. Soaking in a tub with 1/2 cup of baking soda will often help the rash heal as well. For a paste, three parts of baking soda to one part water should be mixed together. This can be applied to the rash and left to dry, leaving a powder film on the skin. This should help relieve the itch and help the healing process.
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