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3685 Lawrenceville Hwy
Suite 100
Lawrenceville, GA 30044
770-921-7386
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2050 Buford Hwy
Suite 101
Buford, GA 30518
770-614-7366
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1500 P'Tree Ind Blvd
Suite 250
Suwanee, GA 30024
770-406-2500
Poison Ivy, Oak and Sumac
As the weather gets warmer, and children spend more time outdoors, they are more likely to come into contact with poisonous plants. Poison Ivy, Oak and Sumac can cause a red, itchy and blistering rash in up to 70-85% of people who are exposed. Urushiol is the oil found in the sap of these plants that causes the allergic reaction. It is easily transferred from the plant to skin, clothing, shoes and pets. A rash can occur within hours of exposure, but can take up to a week to develop.
What Does It Look Like?
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SYMPTOMS:
- Extreme itchiness
- Redness and blisters in streaks or patches
- Often starts on hands, lower legs or other exposed areas
- Can last up to two weeks
TREATMENT:
- Wash affected areas with soap and water to remove any residual oil (including clothing and pets)
- Cool oatmeal baths can be soothing (such as Aveeno)
- Topical calamine lotion may be applied
- Oral Antihistamines can help relieve itching (Benadryl, Zyrtec, Claritin)
- Cool compresses to the affected areas for up to 20 minutes at a time
- Trim and wash under the fingernails to prevent spreading the oil
- Although the fluid in the blisters that may form is not contagious, avoid breaking them to help prevent infection
- In severe cases, oral steroids may be needed
CALL A DOCTOR IF:
- A fever develops
- There is severe discomfort or any breathing difficulties
- The area involved include the face, lips, eyes or genitalia
- Any signs of infection including pus or yellow scabbing
Teaching your children to recognize and avoid these plants can reduce their risk of an unpleasant experience. Have fun in the outdoors but remember the rhyme “Leaves of three, let them be!”