What Everyone Should Understand Concerning Poison Ivy
August 1st, 2010Although it is localized to the United States and East of the Rockie Mountains, poison ivy is a noxious weed that causes severe reactions in a large percentage of humans. Skin reactions may include welts as well as blisters. The red irritated skin can itch and take several days to heal.
Other noxious plants are also found in the USA which cause similar reactions. West of the rockies, you will find poison oak. In the wet bogs of the southeastern quarter of the States, you find Poison Sumac. Each of the plants have a coating of urushiol, the oil like substance that clings to the skin and causes the reaction.
The reaction of to these plants seems to get worse with each exposure. The first time you come into contact with the plant, it may take up to a week for the reaction to be seen. Subsequent exposure can break out in one to two days. A very severe reaction could cause analytic shock. Even though you may think you are not allergic to the plant, you should avoid contact as you may eventually develop a sensitivity. Avoid burning plants as they can cause respiratory inflammation.
The fluid that weeps from the sores caused by these plants cannot spread the reaction in an infected person or to someone else, contrary to popular belief. Any so called spreading of the reactions is a later allergic reaction to the initial exposure of the chemical on the plant.
If you know that you are likely to be exposed to these plants, there are some things that can prevent allergic reaction. You should plan to wear heavy clothing. In addition, a pre contact lotion can prevent a reaction. After exposure, clothing should be washed alone in the hottest water possible using detergent. You should also shower as soon as possible to remove any urushiol from your skin.
If you do develop a reaction, try cold baths to help control the rash. Calamine lotion can help to dry up oozing rash and sooth the reaction. Both oral and topical antihistamines can also be helpful.
Poison Sumac, poison oak and poison ivy are plants which may cause a severe allergic reaction on the skin. In areas where these plants grow take precautions to prevent exposure. Avoid these plants if at all possible.
Poison ivy is not easy to deal with, so if you get it, you will be trying to find for a cure for poison ivy. We can give you a poison ivy cure right now and stop those symptoms.