What Are the Treatments for Poison Ivy or Oak?

Overview

Poison ivy and poison oak are hearty, green plants found in most climates. Upon contact, oil from these plants penetrates the skin, causing an itchy, red rash with bumps or blisters that typically develops within 12 to 72 hours, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. The irritation usually clears within a few weeks, according to the Mayo Clinic; however, treatments are available to relieve the symptoms and discomfort caused by the rash.

Calamine Lotion

According to the Mayo Clinic, rashes caused by poison ivy or poison oak are generally not serious but can be bothersome. To treat the itching that accompanies exposure to poison ivy or poison oak, apply calamine lotion to the affected area. This lotion is available at most drugstores and even grocery stores.

Hydrocortisone Cream

Hydrocortisone cream is another treatment that can be found over the counter for the relief of poison ivy or poison oak. A cream that contains a minimum of 1 percent hydrocortisone can relieve itching for a time.

Oral Medication

Depending on the severity of the poison ivy or poison oak rash, your doctor may prescribe an oral medication, especially if severe blistering occurs. An oral corticosteroid, such as prednisone, may be needed.

Oatmeal Baths

Warm bubble baths, though soothing any time, can be especially calming when poison ivy or poison oak flares up. Sprinkling your bathwater with baking soda, uncooked oatmeal or colloidal oatmeal, such as Aveeno, can treat the itching and irritation.

Antihistamines

Benadryl, or other nonprescription oral antihistamines, can be taken periodically to relieve the itching associated with poison ivy or poison oak. This medication may be given at night, as it can cause drowsiness.

Self-Care Treatments

Certain self-care practices can help you deal with the annoying itch that accompanies poison ivy and poison oak. Wearing smooth cotton clothing may help the skin breathe and not further aggravate the skin. In addition, keeping your nails trimmed short may prevent you from scratching mindlessly.

Considerations

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, approximately 85 percent of people develop an allergic reaction when adequately exposed to poison ivy. A small percentage are resistant (about 15 percent). To keep from developing a nasty reaction to either poison ivy or poison oak, avoiding contact is recommended. If you plan to be outdoors, wear long pants, sleeves, boots and gloves in areas that may contain these plants. Apply a skin barrier product such as bentoquatum, which can be found over the counter and can prevent the poison from absorbing into the skin.