subject: Poison Ivy In the Summer Months and How to Deal Effectively With It [print this page] Poison Ivy In the Summer Months and How to Deal Effectively With It
There is a lot of difficulty watching someone cope with a poison ivy rash. The incidence of poison ivy rashes is reported more in the summer as there are more people engaged in outdoor activities such as yard work, camping and hiking in the woods. It is due to the oil irritant called urushiol that the rash occurs and it is a form of contact dermatitis. The oil can continue to cause skin problems if it contacts the skin in additional places so be on guard for hidden places it may be hiding. For instance, check the bottom of pants, tote bags and other items that may have been touched by the poison ivy plants.
Your skin may have a combination of blisters, bumps that itch as well as red lines on the body. For some people, dry patches occur and the skin can look similar to a burn. There may also be fluid in the blisters. It isn't common but some people due to poison ivy being burned may find their lungs are effected due to the irritation. This substance is very powerful and can effect the body in a number of ways.
It is important to identify your rash properly as one may have mosquito bites, contact dermatitis from something else in the environment or a different rash than one caused by the plant. Some people have heat rash, but confuse it with the rash from urushiol. Once it is positively identified, wash the area and use an antiseptic. Many people keep calmine lotion in the home and car, and this is useful to reduce itching and burning.
Prevention is key and wearing the proper clothing when one is on a nature trail or gardening makes a difference. Many people pick up poison ivy from working in their yard and are not out in the wilderness. Teach your children about three leaves on plants and how to identify the plant properly.
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