Poison Ivy Remedies
Most of the treatments are directed at decreasing the itching until the rash runs its course, which usually takes about a week or two. Since relieving the itching is the important outcome, trial and error works well.
Never open the blisters. An open blister can easily become infected and lead to other serious ailments. If the blisters open, cover loosely with a sterile dressing. In severe instances, see your doctor.
Most individuals find that cool compresses in one way or another are quite relieving. Try utilizing a towel or wash cloth dipped in plain tap water, Epson salt water or Burow’s Solution. This can aid in the relief of intense itching and remove any dry crust that has created as an outcome of the rash. Let the water dry on the part, leaving a salt dust enclosing it. Do this several times a day or more.
A fan blowing over the cool compress will reduce some of the heat of the itching and aid to dry up some of the fluid coming from the rash. As the skin is cooling, the blood vessels constrict and that reduce down on the itching and fluid. This is especially great during the two or three days after the irritation. Some dermatologists advise rubbing an ice cube delicately over the rash numerous times a day, then allowing the skin air dry. Soaking in a tub, specifically using an oatmeal bath can also be very relieving to the itch. Ensure the bath is cool or lukewarm because heat makes the rash even more inflamed or swell.
After cooling your skin, apply to the rash with a lotion such as Calamine. This continues to help soothe the itching and aids in drying up of blisters. Be sure to look at the expiration date on an old calamine container in your medicine locker since it may not be efficient after the expiration date. Calamine may not seem to do any in some incidences but it will not hurt anything and is worth an attempt in the early stages.
Be sure the lotion does not contain benzocaine, zirconium, or a topical antihistamine. These give a numbing effect on the rashes but given in severe cases. These can generally make the rash worse by having an allergic reaction when placed to already irritated skin.
Applying on 1% hydrocortisone cream which are available over-the-counter without doctor’s prescription may give some soothing effect, but is nowhere nearly as efficient as the active topical corticosteroid preparations available from your physician with prescription. These can aid reduce the itching and give temporary soothe but do little to speed up the drying up of the blisters.
Benadryl is available over-the-counter without any prescription and can aid with the itching. Taking Benadryl during the night will make most people sleepy and aid them sleep through the night preventing scratching. Avoid using Benadryl cream or spray topically, because this can have its own reaction. Numerous other antihistamines are available by prescription when you consult your doctor and may be more efficient than over-the-counter treatments.