Poison Ivy: NOT JUST an Enemy of Batman!
Summer time can be a great time to get outside and enjoy the 'great outdoors.' Picnicking, taking hikes, riding bikes, walking through the woods can be a lot of fun unless you happen to meet up with some poison ivy leaves. Poison ivy is one of the most frequent causes of skin rash among children and adults who spend time outdoors. It is found throughout the United States, except in the Southwest, Alaska, and Hawaii. (Another good reason to move to Hawaii!) In the summer, the plant has three shiny green leaves and a red stem. Poison ivy typically grows in the form of a vine, often around lakes and streams--as well as backyards. What causes the rash? The plant is coated with a resin-like sap which contains a chemical called urushiol. Every part of the plant contains the resin, leaves, stems and roots, but usually most people come in contact with the leaves. Urushiol produces symptoms in 3 out of 4 people. (I'll tell my nephews how unique they are!) Often the symptoms begin as severe skin itching and is followed by redness, burning, swelling and blistering. How severe the symptoms are depends on each person's sensitivity and reaction to the allergen. Interesting to note that if you have never been exposed, or are not yet allergic to poison ivy, it may take 10-21 days for a reaction to occur your first time. Once allergic, however, most people break out 48-72 hours after contact with the plant. Misconceptions The blister fluid associated with poison ivy is a product of the body and actually contains very little or no resin. Therefore, the rash cannot spread from the blisters so once a person has washed the oil completely off the skin, the rash is usually not contagious. However, keep in mind that the urushiol may remain for a long time on contaminated clothing, pets, tools, shoes, and other surfaces. These contaminated items can cause rashes in the future if they are not properly cleaned. Treatment Treatment for an allergic reaction to poison ivy can usually be done at home. - Over the counter (OTC) medications, such as hydrocortisone creams or ointments and antihistamines, can help relieve some of the symptoms.
- Lotions containing calamine and menthol are also good for relieving the itch.
- Some remedies have chemicals like topical benzocaine that can be skin sensitizers themselves and cause another break out.
If any signs of infection occur, such as warmth, redness or pain, or exposure involves facial or genital areas or large areas of skin, make an appointment to see your primary care provider or dermatologist. In those cases, prescription medications (like steroids) may be needed to control the reaction and relieve the itching. Prevention is Best Avoiding poison ivy is the best way to prevent an allergic reaction. - Know what the plant looks like. During the spring, the plant may contain yellow or green flowers and white berries. In the summer the leaves are green; in the fall they become red. The leaves are often shiny, and in threes, and are deceptively attractive, especially in autumn.
- Wear long pants and long-sleeved shirts when in a wooded area.
- Wear gloves when gardening.
- Pets who are loose in wooded areas should be watched carefully. They may rub up again the plant, acquire the resin on their fur, and then indirectly pass the allergen to humans who handle the animal.
The skin absorbs the active compounds of the resin within the first few minutes of contact so if contact has been made, wash everything in hot water right away. This includes the skin and garments or items exposed. Hot water deactivates the urushiol oil. What you wear, where you walk and play, and how you wash are all important, but also be aware that smoke from burning wood, vines, weeds or grass contaminated with poison ivy can cause an allergic reaction on the eyelids, face or exposed skin surfaces! Be safe this summer. Remember what your mom said, "Leaves of three, let it be!" And if you have yard work to do, hire my nephews! |
