Clinical Reference Systems: Pediatric Advisor 10.0
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Illustration
Poison Ivy, Poison Oak, and Poison Sumac
DESCRIPTION
- Your child has extremely itchy streaks or patches of
redness and blisters on exposed body surfaces (such as
the hands).
- The rash appears 1 or 2 days after your child was in a
forest or field.
CAUSE
Poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac cause the same type
of rash and are found throughout North America. More than
50% of people are sensitive to the oil of these plants.
EXPECTED COURSE
The rash usually lasts 2 weeks. Treatment reduces the
symptoms but does not cure the rash. The best approach is
prevention.
HOME TREATMENT
- Cool soaks
Soak the area with the rash in cold water or massage it
with an ice cube for 20 minutes as often as necessary.
Let it air dry after the soaking or massage. This will
reduce itching and oozing.
- Steroid creams
If applied early, a steroid cream can reduce the
itching. Ask your pharmacist to recommend an over-the-
counter 1% hydrocortisone cream.
The sores should be dried up and no longer itchy in 10
to 14 days. In the meantime, cut your child's
fingernails short and encourage him not to scratch
himself.
- Benadryl
If itching persists, give Benadryl orally (no
prescription needed) every 6 hours as needed.
- Contagiousness
The fluid from the sores themselves is not contagious.
However, oil or sap from the poisonous plant may remain
on a pet's fur or on items such as clothes or shoes.
The oil or sap is contagious for about a week. Be sure
to wash it off clothes or pets with soap and water.
- Prevention
CALL YOUR CHILD'S PHYSICIAN DURING OFFICE HOURS IF:
- The itching becomes severe, even with treatment.
- The skin looks infected (you see pus or soft yellow
scabs).
- The rash lasts longer than 2 weeks.
- You have other concerns or questions.
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