Poison Ivy Treatment in Bayside, NY
Rashes due to poison ivy and oak are very common in many states of the US. The rashes occur when a person is exposed to sticky oil called urushiol found in these plants. The exposure can take place in the following ways:
- When your skin touches or brushes against any parts of these plants (leaves, stems, flowers, berries, and roots).
- Touching anything that has oil from these plants. The most common mediums are pet fur, clothing, gardening tools, sports gear, etc. When you come in contact with this oil, an allergic reaction takes place, and itchy red rashes are caused. This is known as allergic contact dermatitis.
The following are the symptoms that will occur after the allergic reaction takes place:
- Itching
- Redness around the area of contact with the
- Hives
- Blisters that may secrete fluids.
However, the reaction to the allergy can vary from people to people. While some people may never get allergic to these thus plants, others can show severe symptoms like:
- Irregular Breathing
- Swelling of the face, mouth, genitals etc.
- Large blisters
Rashes due to Rhus plants only spread when a person is exposed to urushiol oil. It does not spread through the rashes or blisters (and the fluid in them) on the skin. However, indirect contact with the oil through clothes, fur, tools, etc. can cause allergy.
The Rhus allergy occurs and heals itself on a natural course. It takes a week for the rashes to show up. They may last for a period of 10 days to 3 weeks. In severe cases, they may last up to 6 weeks. A mixture of vinegar and cold water, ice packs, and cold showers may give temporary relief from the itching. You should contact the best dermatologist near you to get professional medical supervision.
Poison ivy and oak look different according to the change in seasons. In addition, they may grow differently depending on the environment. They may grow as climbing vines or shrubs. You can prevent coming in contact with oil by adopting the following safety measures:
- Wear long pants and sleeves, and closed shoes while visiting places where you suspect the presence of such plants.
- Wear vinyl or leather gloves while working in the gardens or with wild shrubs.
- Apply lotion or barrier cream that has bentoquatam in it. It can prevent the contact of oil with the skin.
- Never burn poison ivy and oak as the oil can attach to the smoke particles and exposure to the smoke can cause rashes.
In case, you have already encountered these plants:
- Wash your skin immediately with a mild soap or rubbing alcohol. Also, use a brush to clean under your nails.
- Wash away your clothes or any other items that have oil on them.
The best way to identify poison ivy and oak and to safeguard oneself against them is by remembering the phrase: “Leaves of three let them be”. These plants generally have three leaflets.
If you’re dealing with an uncomfortable rash from poison ivy or oak, our dermatology experts at Skin First Dermatology are here to help. We provide effective treatments to soothe your skin and help you recover quickly.
Don’t wait for the irritation to worsen—schedule your consultation today and get the relief you need! Contact us now to book your appointment.
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