There are a variety of over the counter oral and topical products that can
ease the symptoms of poison ivy (but won’t cure it). Good old-fashioned calamine lotion, zinc oxide ointment, baking
soda paste (one tablespoon of baking soda to one teaspoon of water),
hydrocortisone cream, baths in oatmeal soap or medicated oatmeal based
products like Avenno, and taking oral Benadryl can help ease the
symptoms. Soaking in a
baking soda bath can also help with broad rashes.
Only in extreme cases should you see a physician for a poison ivy, oak or
sumac related rash. If the
rash covers a large area of your body, is on your face, in your mouth,
in your eyes, or your genitals you should seek medical treatment as soon
as possible. If after
exposure to poison ivy there is swelling in the throat, tongue and or
lips, if the victim has a hard time breathing, is weak or dizzy, has
blue lips and mouth, or falls unconscious, they could be having a very
severe reaction requiring immediate medical treatment. Self-medication without a physician is never recommended, if you
have an adrenaline kit, know how to use and are qualified, administer
adrenaline as needed.
In
about 10% of cases where there is a rash outbreak the skin can become
extremely red and swollen, pus can ooze from the skin and the rash can
spread very rapidly. This
is one of only a handful of truly urgent dermatological emergencies that
needs treatment.
If you were exposed to the smoke of burning poison ivy, oak or sumac and
you believe you may have breathed in the fumes, you need to seek medical
treatment immediately. Some
people can have life threatening reactions from inhaling urushiol vapors
into their lungs. In some
states, it is illegal to burn poison ivy due to the health risks it
represents. With exception
to the exposure to the vapor in smoke, most folks do not have these
severe reactions, but do get the vexing annoying itch and rash.
The best way to prevent a rash or infection is to know what the plants look
like. “Leaflets of three,
let it be,” is pretty smart advice. If you come in contact with poison ivy, oak or sumac, taking a
hot shower as soon as possible using strong soap, as well as washing any
clothing or equipment that comes in contact in the same manner is also
helpful. Be careful in
where you select your camp and also where you rest, sit, and relieve
yourself. If you are camping in the backcountry make sure the path to
your cat hole is free and clear, you won’t be as careful at 2:30 in
the morning in the dark. As
always, understanding and common sense can keep you from having a bad
experience, with this annoying, but necessary plant. |
Canoe
