In this Article

• What causes the rash? How do I identify poison ivy?
• What are the signs and symptoms of the poison ivy rash?
• What is the treatment for poisoning from these plants?
• How can contact with these plants be prevented?
• Poison Ivy, Oak & Sumac At A Glance
• Pictures of Summer Skin Hazards - Slideshow
• Poison Ivy Glossary
• Poison Ivy Index

How can contact with these plants be prevented?

Poison ivy and its relatives are often hidden among other vegetation. Even if you know exactly what they look like, it is very hard to avoid coming in contact with them. Although wearing long pants and long sleeves in warm weather may be uncomfortable, it is important to do so when you might be in contact with plants you can't see, whether you are gardening in the backyard or hiking in the woods. So-called "barrier creams" may help a bit but are not very effective.

When pulling up weeds, those who may be allergic should make sure to tuck sleeves into gloves at all times, since sleeves tend to ride up the forearms and leave wrists and forearms exposed.

If you think you may have been exposed to poison ivy, wash the skin with cool water as soon as possible. After half an hour, however, this is no longer likely to prevent the reaction. As discussed above, washing pets and clothing may also be of limited help.

Attempts to desensitize people by giving them poison ivy by mouth or by injection were tried in the past but proved to be ineffective and potentially dangerous.

Poison Ivy, Oak & Sumac At A Glance

• Many people are susceptible to the rashes of poison ivy, oak, and sumac.
• The sap oil, called urushiol, causes the skin rash.
• Poison ivy is not contagious.
• Washing the oily sap from the skin with water and soap immediately can help prevent the rash.
• Avoiding direct contact with the plants can prevent the rash.

Suggested Reading by Our Doctors

• prednisolone, Pediapred Oral Liquid, Medrol - Defines the medication prednisolone (Pediapred Oral Liquid, Medrol) a drug used used to treat inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, colitis, asthma, bronchitis, certain skin rashes, and allergic or inflammatory conditions of the nose and eyes. Article includes descriptions, uses, drug interactions, and side effects.
• Skin Test For Allergy -
• Eczema - Get information about eczema causes, skin symptoms, diagnosis and treatment. Types include dyshidrotic, atopic dermatitis, nummular, varicose and seborrheic eczema.

Read more Poison Ivy related articles »

Latest Medical News

• Boomers Doomed to Disability?
• Gender Divorce Gap After Illness Strikes
• Cigarette Smoking's Decline Levels Off
• 22 Million Cases of Swine Flu in U.S.