Health Services
Self Care

Poison Ivy

Description
Poison ivy, poison oak and poison sumac are all part of a group of plants that make up the poison ivy family. These plants are found in all the states of the continental United States.

These plants can cause a skin reaction. No reaction usually occurs the first time the skin is exposed to the plant. Subsequent contact with the plant or plant resin, however, may result in an allergic skin reaction which usually appears 7-14 days after contact. Subsequent contact results in a more rapid reaction such as 2-5 days after contact. The severity of the reaction is related to the amount of plant material which comes in contact with the skin, as well as to the degree of allergic sensitivity of the individual. The allergen (irritant from the plant) is often transferred from the hands or clothing to other parts of the body.

Symptoms
Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include itching, rash, dry, stiff-feeling skin, blisters, and possibly pain due to the blisters or cracks in the dry skin. The rash may appear in patches or in a line. Swelling around the face, eyes, and genital area is common. Palms, soles, and scalp are often not affected. Fluid from the blisters will not spread the reaction to other parts of the body or to another person.

Treatment

• Wash thoroughly as soon as possible after exposure to the plant. Clean hands, and wash well under finger nails.
• Apply cool compresses to affected parts.
• Wash clothing worn when exposed to the plant.
• Calamine lotion or cortisone cream may be used to relieve mild itching.
• Your clinician may prescribe an oral medication if the reaction is more severe and widespread.
  

More Information/Questions
For more information, Messiah students may call the Health Center at 691-6035.