Poison oak or sumac poisoning is an allergic reaction caused by physical contact to poison oak or poison ivy plants, according to MedlinePlus, an online service of the National Institutes of Health. Sap from these plants can come in direct contact with the skin or may attach in other objects, such as garden tools, outdoor equipment and clothing, causing an allergic reaction. Ashes of these plants may also be irritants. Reactions to poison oak may cause several complications.
Rashes on the Sensitive Areas of the Body
MayoClinic.com and MedlinePlus report that rashes on the sensitive areas of the body are a possible complication of poison oak. Rashes and inflammation caused by direct contact with the irritating substance may occur in the mouth, genitals and eyes. Rashes may be localized or widespread and moderate or severe. In cases of widespread and severe rashes, washing the irritants off or taking an antihistamine might be indicated.
Blister Formation
Blister formation is one of the complications of poison oak poisoning, according to MedlinePlus. A blister is a small, fluid-filled, raised area in the skin that may appear on the arms, legs, chest, abdomen and other parts of the body -- brought about by contact with the sap of a poison ivy plant. Blisters can be very bothersome and at times painful.
Blister Infection
Blister infection is one of the common poison oak complications resulting from contact, as described by MayoClinic.com. These blisters may be itchy, and scratching them with dirty fingernails may introduce harmful bacteria to the affected area, leading to a secondary bacterial infection. In some instances, pus may form within the blisters.
Fever
Fever greater than 100 F is a possible complication of poison oak poisoning, according to MayoClinic.com. Fever is a severe form of reaction from poison oak contact; this can develop 12 to 48 hours after the exposure and can last up to several weeks. The severity of the reaction depends on the amount of irritant and the length of exposure.
Itching
Itching is an expected complication of poison oak contact, as defined in MedlinePlus. Itching is the primary symptom of any allergic reaction. This itching from being exposed to an irritant such as the poison oak plant is also called pruritus.
