Some Info On Poison Ivy
Tuesday, August 3rd, 2010One of the most popular, and most common, allergic reactions in the world is a condition known as poison ivy. Although some people are immune to it’s symptoms, most people experience an allergic reaction when coming into contact with it. These reactions can be relatively mild or very severe. It might be worth your time to look at some basic information.
Poison ivy is one member of a large group of plants known as Sumachs. These poisonous plants are popular for the common allergic reaction it produces in those who have come into physical contact with it. Inside this plant is a clear liquid called urushiol. This liquid is the culprit responsible for the troublesome reactions that most people experience.
You will find the plant throughout Europe, Asia, and all over North America. They primarily occupy wooded areas, but can be found in urban environments as well. It is easily mistaken for other, similar plants. It also takes on differing appearances, making it very difficult to identify and avoid. It can appear as a small bush, a trailing vine, or a vertical vine.
Many people experience the symptoms of the allergic reaction, often many times over the course of their lives. You will find that many people are simply immune to it, experiencing no ill reactions at all. Most people, however, are allergic too it. After contact, the skin will soon become red and inflamed. The epidermis will then become very itchy and dry, and blisters usually occur soon after. In severe cases, those blisters can bust. Less common symptoms are fever, swelling, difficulty breathing and dizziness.
Poison ivy allergies are some of the most common in the entire world. It is extremely difficult to identify it, and very easy to catch. The only definite way of preventing it is to avoid the plant. If you plan on being outdoors, become familiar with pictures of it in hopes that you can spot it and avoid it. If you think you may have been exposed, remove all relevant clothing and wash in hot water. Also, take a shower and wash the body well. Consider wearing long pants and shirts if you can.
Treatment for this issue can usually be done in the home. For dryness and itching, apply a wet compress or soak the affected area in cool water. There are also various antihistamine pills and lotions that can bring relief. Also important is to try and avoid scratching the blisters as much as possible.
It should come as no surprise that most people are familiar with poison ivy. Many people have either developed the problem themselves or have known someone who has. It can be a chronic issue with people who live near woods or spend time outdoors. Although it is easy to catch and hard to avoid, the symptoms are usually mild and will recede in a short while.
We have some great poison ivy remedies. Are you looking for a cure for poison ivy? We understand how complicated it can be and we are here to help you.