Poison Ivy

Symptoms typically develop within 12 to 48 hours and can last two to three weeks. 

• Blister 
• Swelling
• Redness in areas that itch 
• Rashy or itchy skin

• Coming in contact with the plant's oil. The oil can be found in the plant's stem, roots, and leaves. 
• Coming in contact with contaminated objects, such as gardening tools, clothes that were worn outdoors, or even pets who have recently been outdoors. 

• Avoid the plant. Learn to identify what the plant looks like and avoid it during all seasons of the year.
• Wear protective clothing when going into the woods or near areas that might have poison ivy present. Protect your skin by wearing long sleeves, pants, boots and thick gloves. 
• Get rid of the plant by applying herbicides, wear thick gloves and remove the plant from the root, then throw the plant away. Do not burn poison ivy, urushiol can be transferred through the air and impact the lungs. 

• Most poison ivy rashes go away within a week or two.
• For relief consider over-the-counter medicines like anti-itch creams, oatmeal baths and cold compresses.
• Contact your primary care physician if the rash affects your eyes, mouth, or genitals or if symptoms worsen and you notice swelling or blisters.