In most people, contact with the oils from poison ivy, poison oak and poison sumac causes an allergic reaction. The area becomes inflamed, burns, itches, redness and blisters usually occur. This reaction is a form of contact dermatitis, a condition caused when an allergen that comes into direct contact with the skin.
Poison ivy is found more often in the eastern part of the country, while poison oak is more common in the southeastern part of the United States.
Causes
The poison ivy, poison oak and poison sumac plants all secrete urushiol, a substance that often irritates human skin. When you touch the leaves of these plants, some of the urushiol may absorb into your skin and cause a reaction even if it is only a small amount. Because urushiol does not dry, this sticky substance easily attaches to the skin, clothing, tools, equipment or a pet’s fur.
People can develop a rash from:
- Direct contact with the plant leaves
- Inadvertently rubbing the urushiol onto other areas of your body
- Inhaling smoke when the plant is burnt
- Touching urushiol left on an object or pet
The rash caused by these plants is not contagious because it does not contain the urushiol. Additionally, you cannot contract poison ivy, poison oak and poison sumac from another person unless the urushiol remains on the skin or clothing.
Symptoms
Usually, poison ivy, poison oak and poison sumac sufferers will exhibit some of these signs:
- General redness or streaking where the plant touched the skin
- Itchiness
- Oozing blisters filled with fluid
- Small bumps or hives
Treatment
After exposure to one of these plants, the rash usually appears one to two days later and will clear up on its own in 14 to 21 days. If the itching becomes bothersome, you can try oatmeal baths, over-the-counter antihistamines and hydrocortisone creams. In severe cases or if the rash has become widespread, your doctor may recommend a prescription topical or an oral steroid.
Prevention
The best defense against poison ivy, poison oak and poison sumac is to avoid coming in contact with these plants. Follow these suggestions:
- Learn to identify the leaves of poison ivy, poison oak and poison sumac
- Remove these plants if they develop in your yard
- Thoroughly clean any items that have touched these plants
- Use caution during time spent outdoors
- Wash skin immediately after contact with soap and water
- Apply a barrier cream to skin