Patient discussions
Prevention is always better than treatment. Learn to identify poison ivy, oak, and sumac and avoid it. Wear long sleeves, long pants, shoes, and socks. If you have touched the plant, try to keep your hands away from your eyes, mouth, and face.
If inadvertent exposure has occurred, exposed areas should be washed unidirectionally with a damp washcloth and liquid soap under hot running water.[28] Scrub under the fingernails with a brush to prevent spreading of the resin to other parts of the body by touching or scratching.
If dermatitis develops, apply soothing lotions such as calamine lotion. If symptoms get worse, see your doctor for more active treatment. Some people can have severe allergic reactions to these plants including swelling in the throat, breathing problems, weakness, and dizziness. If any of these reactions occur, seek emergency medical care.
Remember to wash any clothing (including shoes) with soap and hot water, as the resin can persist for many months, and cause further dermatitis. American Academy of Dermatology: poison ivy, oak, and sumac Opens in new window CDC National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health: poisonous plants Opens in new window
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