|
|
|
|
|
Useful methods to possibly prevent an outbreak or further spread of the urushiol oil after exposure include:
Stay outside until you can thoroughly rinse the area(s) with COOL water. Although the urushiol is not water soluble, the physical force of the water will remove the oil from the skin. This step also prevents further contamination of objects throughout the home.
Next, wash with soap and water. Using soap prior to this point may actually spread the urushiol oil to areas previously not exposed to the oil.
According to its manufacturer, Zanfel® is an over-the-counter wash that may be used at any point between exposure and symptomatic reaction. It is fairly costly, usually costing about $40 for a 1-ounce tube. The wash contains ethoxylate and sodium lauryl sarcosinate (detergent) which are supposed to bind the urushiol and inactivate the oil.
Any clothes, shoes, or other objects (i.e. rake, shovel, clippers) that may have come in contact with the oil should be wiped off with isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol and water. Be sure to cover your hands with a protective barrier while cleaning, and discard gloves when done.
Is the Rash Contagious?
Urushiol is contagious; however, the resin is usually absorbed into the skin within 10 minutes of exposure. The weeping blisters that de
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
velop as part of the rash post-exposure do not contain urushiol, so the rash will only develop where the urushiol has directly touched the skin. Be sure to clean suspected contaminated objects (i.e. coats, clothing, outdoor equipment) and under fingernails to avoid reexposure.
How Should I Deal with the Rash?
The rash, blisters, and itch usually go away in 14 to 20 days without any medical treatment. Try not to scratch the blisters. Your fingernails may further damage the skin's protective layer, and your nails may also have germs that could cause an infection.
Mild Cases
Wet compresses or soaking in cool water may decrease the itching. Products like Domeboro's® solution, baking soda, and zinc oxide may help to dry out the lesions. Calamine lotion or oatmeal baths may also help with itching and decrease the weeping. Oral antihistamines and over-the-counter topical corticosteroids (Cortaid®, IvySoothe®, hydrocortisone) will also relieve itching but do not shorten the course of the rash. Prescription topical corticosteroids can be beneficial if started early (within a few hours of exposure) and if less than 10% of the body is involved. If applied early, it is possible to suppress a worse reaction. Once the blisters have formed, however, the topical steroid will only help with itch relief.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Severe Cases
Prescription topical corticosteroids are an option for treatment early on, but prescription oral corticosteroids (methylprednisolone, prednisone) are generally what are prescribed for treatment if more than 25% of the body is involved, or if the rash in on the face or genitals. Therapy must be tapered off to prevent rebound flaring of the lesions, generally over one to three weeks.
*Please talk to your physician or pharmacist if you have any further questions regarding poison ivy. If you suspect infection, seek medical attention from your healthcare provider. For additional information on this topic, you may also visit www.poison-ivy.org/ or http://science.howstuffworks.com/poison-ivy.htm.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
