Poison Ivy, Poison Oak, and Poison Sumac Dermatitis
Alternate Names : Allergic Contact Dermatitis
What are the treatments for the condition?
Treatments for poison ivy, poison oak, or poison sumac dermatitis range from home remedies to prescription medications. Common treatment measures include the following:
cool compresses soaked with tap water, baking soda water, or Epsom salts to temporarily relieve symptoms
tepid baths in water containing products made from ground oatmeal
topical corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone or betamethasone, or triamcinolone
antihistamines such as diphenhydramine to relieve itching
oral corticosteroids, such as prednisone or methylprednisolone, for severe cases
What are the side effects of the treatments?
Oral corticosteroids may cause mood disturbance, increased appetite, increased blood pressure, elevated blood glucose, and bone or skin thinning.
What happens after treatment for the condition?
Recuperation from poison ivy, poison oak, or poison sumac dermatitis should occur in one to two weeks, although repeat occurrences occasionally happen with repeat exposure. Reexposure to urushiol may occur, for example, after handling camping gear, golf clubs, clothing, or pet fur that was originally in contact with the plant.
How is the condition monitored?
Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider.
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