WHAT IS IT?
This is a contact allergy that is caused by urushiol oil. Urushiol oil is found on poison ivy, oak and sumac. The oil can be irritating for up to 5 years after the plants are dead. You can inhale the oil when the plants are burned, and as little as one nanogram (one billionth of a gram) can cause a reaction.
WHAT DOES THE RASH LOOK LIKE?
The rash is usually red and may look like scratch marks. It is usually extremely itchy. It may be swollen and have weeping blisters.
HOW DID I GET THIS?
You can inhale it. You can touch it directly. You can touch clothes that had contact with the oil, or you can touch a pet that touched the oil (brushed its fur on the plant).
IT’S SPREADING – WHAT DO I DO?
The rash does NOT spread. Once someone comes in contact with the oil, it may take 3-7 days for the rash to fully develop, but can appear as early as a few hours to days after first contact. Once the rash has fully developed it may take another 1 to 3 weeks to heal, depending on severity. The areas that had the greatest and longest contact with the oil will be the first to develop.
IS IT CONTAGIOUS?
No, the rash is NOT at all contagious. The only way to get the rash is to come into contact with the oil. One you have washed with soap and water and washed your clothes, you cannot spread the oil.
(Remember – wash your hands BEFORE and AFTER you go to the bathroom to avoid this rash on the genitals.)
CAN I GO TO SCHOOL OR DAYCARE?
Yes, this rash is not contagious.
WHAT CAN I DO TO MAKE IT FEEL BETTER?
Benadryl, by mouth, or Claritin my control some of the itchiness. You may also apply 1% Hydrocortisone to the area 3-4 times per day. You may also apply Calamine lotion and/or take an Aveeno oatmeal bath. Avoid any lotions that contain Benadryl (i.e. Caladryl) as they may make the rash worse. Benadryl by mouth is fine.
WHAT DOES AN INFECTED RASH LOOK LIKE?
It can be tender, red (or dark pink), and/or warm to the touch beyond the rash itself. It may have red, tender streaks going from the rash. There may be honey-crusted scabs around the blisters. The blisters may grow or ooze pus.
WHEN SHOULD I CALL THE DOCTOR?
You should call the doctor immediately, or go to the emergency room if after hours, if you are having difficulty breathing. You should call the doctor during office hours if the rash is over one quarter of your body or more, it is on your genitals, you think an infection may be starting, there are any large blisters, the rash is open and oozing, the rash is on the eyes, lips or mouth. Call the doctor immediately if you think there may be an infection with a fever, there is severe swelling, or you are uncertain if infection is spreading.
