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Poison Ivy Treatment
How to treat poison ivy rash
(10 Jun 2008)
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Natural Cure for Poison Ivy
Poison ivy rash is not an infection, but is an allergic reaction to the oily resin present in the poison ivy. This generally causes an itching, red rash with blisters or bumps. It is a very common cause of skin rash in both children and adults spending time in the outdoors.
The smoke produced when burning the plant can also bring on the same reaction. The oily resin which is responsible for the reaction enters the skin rapidly, but is rarely transferred from one individual to another. The rash is caused by the oil from the plant and not fluid from the blister, so if the oil is washed off the skin thoroughly it is not contagious at all.
Poison ivy rash heals naturally in around one to three weeks, but you can use several home remedies or medications to relieve the symptoms and promote healing. In case of a severe or widespread outbreak your doctor could prescribe an oral corticosteroid. As the rash is caused by the resin or oil from the plant its important too wash yourself thoroughly, as well as your clothes, to prevent any lingering residue of the resin from causing the rash or spreading it. You can also bathe in lukewarm water and use an oatmeal bath product, commonly available in pharmacies, to help soothe the itchy skin. Aluminum acetate soaks are also useful as they help dry the rash as well as reduce itching.
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answered by G M on 10 Jun 2008, 6:45:25
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