05/29/2026
It's that time of year we see a lot of allergic contact dermatitis from poison ivy, oak, and sumac. The rash is caused by skin contact with the oil from the plants - contrary to popular belief, the fluid from the blisters or rash can't cause poison ivy. The oil can be spread over other parts of your body once it is on you. It can also be obtained from other surfaces, like lawn mowers, shoes, and pet fur. The rash is only spread from the oil of the plants, and once you have bathed your skin you won't spread it to others. Soap and water will remove the oil from clothes and shoes. If you think it might be on your pet, wash your pet with a pet shampoo.
The rash starts from several hours to three days after contact with the plant and begins in the form of red bumps and blisters, accompanied by severe itching. Some of the blisters can become painful. Sometimes there will be swelling around the affected areas. The rash can take a few days to fully develop and sometimes takes 2-3 weeks to resolve.
To help with the itch, put 1% hydrocortisone cream (such as Cortaid) on the rash three times per day. If itching becomes severe, give an allergy medicine, such as Benadryl or Zyrtec. Cold soaks help for itching also - soak the involved area in cool water for 20 minutes. You can also rub the rash with an ice cube. Call our office if the rash lasts more than 3 weeks, if the rash is severe or there is facial swelling, or if the rash looks like it might be infected.
