How to Protect Yourself From Poison Ivy, Oak and Sumac

With the longer, warmer days, many people are spending more and more time outdoors.  They are going to the park, doing yard work, riding bikes, going hiking and lots of camping.  With all of this time being spent outdoor that means there is a greater chance of getting Poison Ivy, Oak or Sumac.  Do not spend your summer itching and miserable, be smart when you go outdoor and protect your skin when you go where poison ivy, oak or sumac may be present.

Image via Wikipedia

If you are going to be in the woods, among bushes and tall grass than be sure to dress appropriately, you never know if one of these plants is in the area.  Shorts, flip-flops and tank tops may be cute however; boots, long sleeve shirts and pants are what are going to protect your skin.

Poison Ivy, oak and sumac all contain a chemical called ‘Urushiol, which can be found in the plants sap, stems, branches, leaves and even the roots.  This chemical is what causes the allergic reaction featuring the irritating rash, oozing blisters and constant itch.  Once the chemical from the plant touches your skin, an itchy rash will most likely develop.  This could be a few hours after contact or a few days, that pretty much depends on the individual’s sensitivity.  Blisters will soon follow; they will often be small, puffy and full of pus.

If you think you may have rubbed up against poison ivy, oak or sumac scrub the infected  area with warm water or an alcohol wipe and scrub it good, than take a shower as soon as you are able to do so.  Upon returning home, wash all your cloths that you wore, wipe down backpacks, boots, tools and any other items taken with you, with alcohol.  Remember if you take you dog with you, he will need a bath upon returning home as well.  The sap from the plants sticks to fur and may last for some time.

Image via Wikipedia

Burning poison ivy, oak or sumac is not a good idea, if inhaled it could cause a sever allergic reaction. The chemical Urushiol not only gets on your skin, but it gets into your throat, lungs, nasal and sinus cavities as well.

Many believe that the rash can spread when scratched, and that others can get it.  The thing with Urushiol, is that it quickly absorbs into the skin, leaving nothing to be spread or transferred to another.  According to studies done by the American Academy of Dermatology, 85 percent of people will develop an allergic reaction after coming in contact with poison ivy, oak or sumac.      
 
If you do develop an allergic reaction, taking an oatmeal bath or using calamine lotion can help dry up the blisters and provide some relief from the itching.  In sever cases such as swelling around the eyes, throat and genitals, a doctor should be seen.

Image via Wikipedia     (poison ivy vine)