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When out hiking in the woods or working outside the house, exposure to poison ivy presents an irritating danger. If skin comes into contact with poison ivy, poison oak or sumac, a red incessantly itching rash will develop.

Skin reacts to these plants because of the sap they contain, called urushiol. This substance causes an ‘allergic contact dermatitis,’ which raises a rash in the pattern of exposure to the plant’s leaves. What develops is a constant itching sensation, usually lasting about five to twelve days before dissipating. In severe cases, rashes can last for an extended period of time, and develop into painful blisters emitting yellow puss.

To avoid coming into contact with this plant, first learn to identify poison ivy. This can be difficult as the colors of the leaves change with the seasons. However, it is typically a green large leaved plant with three leaves per stem. For year round pictures of the plant, check with the local forest service, or visit a home improvement store. If you find it is growing in your yard, removal services are available to eradicate bushes or vines.

Direct contact with leaves or roots is not the only way to be exposed. Touching bare skin to gardening tools, clothing, or pet fur, which has picked up urushiol, are just as effective at causing a reaction. Tools which carry the oil may cause rashes months or years later, so be sure to put on gloves and clean any items which have been exposed.

Although immunity to poison ivy can develop, always take precautions. If exposure occurs, and a small itchy patch, or larger rash develops, rinse thoroughly in cold water. This should be done as soon as the rash is noticed. The longer the oil sits on skin, the more it absorbs into it. Most rashes will disappear on their own after a few days, but for severe reactions, see a doctor right away.

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