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How to Detect Poison Ivy Symptoms

Filed Under Eczema Treatment, Skin Diseases

Poison Ivy Plant You may develop poison ivy symptoms upon contact with the plant, poison ivy. Poison ivy (Toxicondendron radicans) is a green plant that comes in many sizes and shapes. The common feature of the different varieties is the leaves, which consist of three leaflets with pointed tips, with the middle leaflet on a long stalk. It is not a tall plant, usually growing close to the ground.

If you break its leaf or stem, the plant releases a white juice which turns into black when exposed to the air. This juice contains toxicondendrol, a poisonous resin. If you have a sensitive skin, you can develop poison ivy symptoms.

Not everyone develops symptoms however. Some do not show any reactions, while others can get itchy and extensive rashes. There is no cure for the allergic reactions, but there are available conventional and natural treatments.

Poison ivy symptoms can appear as rashes in just a few hours after exposure to the resin, but sometimes it may take a few days. Once evident, the rash can last from 1 to 4 weeks, although you suffer the worst stages 4 to 7 days after contact. The severity of the symptoms depends on the quantity of resinous oil coming into contact with your skin and on how sensitive you are to the plant.

If your contact with the plant is mild, then you will only experience some itching. Clean off the affected area with soap and water. An oatmeal bath will relieve the itching, whilst calamine lotion, zinc oxide, or baking soda can also help.

Severe poison ivy symptoms include itching, redness, swelling and blisters. Consult your doctor immediately if you are unable to stop your symptoms.