Poison Ivy

Poison Oak and Ivy are very common in this part of the country and cause an incessantly itchy rash. Often the rash will occur on that part of the body where the highest concentration of plant oils contacted the skin. Lesions are red, weepy and often linear in distribution. The rash can continue to evolve over a week and does not spread from one body part to another. We use very potent topical steroids and sometimes oral prednisone to treat affected patients. Sarna is a good over the counter anti-itch lotion that we recommend for use during the day. For patients who react to poison ivy often, we suggest using Ivy Block before doing any yard ward to help minimize the incidence of outbreaks. We do attempt to work patients in for same day appointments when they have a rash of this nature.

The best remedy for poison ivy/oak is to avoid contact all together. Survey your yard for this plant with use of identifying pictures. You may need to have the roots treated of the plant in order to effectively eradicate it.

Poison Ivy Rash