Poison oak is a plant which contains an oily resin called urushiol. If this resin is allowed to make contact with your skin, it can cause an allergic reaction which causes a rash. If you come into contact with poison oak, the best treatment is to immediately limit exposure. Wash your hands, skin and clothing with lukewarm water and soap right away to eliminate any remaining urushiol. Poison oak causes extreme itching and is uncomfortable, but is easily treated and usually begins to resolve in about a week.
Step 1
Apply over-the-counter corticosteroid creams such as hydrocortisone which can reduce swelling. These creams can be applied to the rash up to four times daily, according to MayoClinic.com
Step 2
Use calamine lotion. This topical over-the-counter lotion can soothe itching, which will prevent scratching. Dirty fingernails can cause the rash to become infected, which will slow the healing process.
Step 3
Take oral antihistamines such as diphenhydramine, which can be purchased over-the-counter. Diphenhydramine will not only calm the itching, but can also help you sleep.
Step 4
Soak in a cool tub of water. Add over-the-counter oatmeal preparations to the water to calm the rash and relieve itching. If you don't have a bathtub, try taking a cool shower instead. The application of cool wet compresses throughout the day for up to 30 minutes can also relieve itching and swelling.
Step 5
Contact your doctor if the rash is widespread, or in sensitive areas such as your face, lips or genitals. Also contact your doctor if the rash begins to ooze pus, has a foul odor or if you develop a fever. In these cases, it may be necessary for your doctor to prescribe a strong steroid such as prednisone for the rash, or an antibiotic for infection.
Tips and Warnings
- Wear long pants and long-sleeved shirts if contact with poison oak is likely. Bathe pets that may have come in contact with poison oak to prevent them spreading the allergy-causing oils to people.
- Contact your doctor immediately if have symptoms of a severe reaction such as difficulty breathing.
