Clinical Reference Systems: Pediatric Advisor 10.0
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Poison Ivy, Poison Oak, and Poison Sumac - Brief Version
What is poison ivy, oak, and sumac?
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. The
rash usually lasts 2 weeks. Your child probably has touched
one of these plants if:
- There is an area of skin with extremely itchy streaks or
patches of redness and blisters.
- A rash appears 1 or 2 days after being in a forest or
field.
How can I take care of my child?
- Cool soaks to reduce itching.
Soak the area with the rash in cold water or massage it
with an ice cube for 20 minutes as often as necessary.
- Steroid creams.
Apply a steroid cream four times a day to reduce the
itching. Ask your pharmacist to recommend one.
- Contagiousness.
The fluid from the sores themselves cannot spread poison
ivy. However, the oil or sap from the plant can cause
the rash for about a week and may remain on a pet's fur
or on items such as shoes or clothes. Wash it off pets
or clothes with soap and water.
How can I help prevent poison ivy, oak, or sumac?
- If you think your child has had contact with one of these
plants, wash the exposed skin with any soap as soon as
possible.
- Everyone should wear long pants and socks when walking
through woods that may contain poison ivy, oak, or sumac.
Call your child's doctor during office hours if:
- The itching becomes very bad, 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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