Question 1

Does poison ivy always itch?

Accepted Answer

Since it is a contact allergic reaction, it will always itch at some stage .

Question 2

Rash on leg that itches but doesn't look like poison ivy it feels like there are little insects running around when it gets itchy?

Accepted Answer

Unless you have traveled someplace tropical the chances this is an insect infestation are low. However, until you have been examined "bugs" cannot be ruled out. I do recommend you be seen by a dermatologist.

Question 3

Back in the fall i had poison ivy on my left arm. i now have a red rash the shape of the rash i had and it itches. can it come back? without exposure?

Accepted Answer

Without exposure to  poison ivy  you shouldn't get a new case of poison ivy dermatitis. But  if  there was any  urushiol  (sticky chemical that causes itching) left behind on clothing or surfaces that could still cause you reacte.

Question 4

Is poison ivy itching supposed to last weeks?

Accepted Answer

Though it is usually due to people putting topical benadryl, (diphenhydramine) either creams or liquids, and developing an adverse reaction to it.  If it has been going on for weeks, you need to be seen.

Question 5

Got into some poison ivy or something, 3-4 wks ago. still itching and scratching.  what to do?

Accepted Answer

unless you are reexposing yourself to the Rhus oil from clothing you wore when exposed the reaction should be going away. You may have a secondary infection, or have developed a scratch itch cycle. Contrary to popular belief you can not spread poison ivy by the fluid in the blisters.  You need to be seen and treated by your doctor.

Question 6

What could be the reason my poison ivy itching?

Accepted Answer

Histamine and histamine like products are released from blood cells being exposed to chemicals of poison oak/ ivy. These chemicals cause irritation of nerve endings.

Question 7

In what way can i treat poison ivy..the itching is killing me?

Accepted Answer

About half of people who are in contact with poison ivy will develop skin rashes locally. Reactions are due to the sensitivity to uroshiol, the oily resin that is found in the leaves. Mild cases does not need treatment. Severe cases like uncontrolled itch, your doctor can give you an oral dose of corticosteroid for a few weeks to help relief symptoms.

Question 8

Will oatmeal baths help decrease the itching due to poison ivy?

Accepted Answer

Itchy, dry skin often gets some relief with oatmeal baths and so you may get some relief with that for your symptoms. Severe poison ivy will not likely respond much to the oatmeal. Calamide lotion, Benadryl (diphenhydramine) may help itching. If really bad symptoms, consult doc for stronger topical and/or oral steroids. Good luck.

Question 9

How long does it take for a poison ivy rash to develop and start itching?

Accepted Answer

The chemical in the poison ivy plant that causes the problem in many people usually takes a day or two before it fully erupts. Often, people feel something is a little different for a day or two before the itch and rash starts. Once there, it takes about 7-10 days to run its course.New blisters will appear and finally crust over.The rash is not contagious!the source is-clothes, gloves, etc.

Question 10

What is the best way to stop the itching from poison ivy or poison oak?  what's the best cream?

Accepted Answer

To stop the itch from poison ivy/oak, cold compresses to the rash plus Benadryl (diphenhydramine) or hydroxyzine. A high-potency steroid cream usually helps. Oftentimes, oral steroids are needed to control the itch and inflammation, courtesy of your doctor or dermatologist.

Does poison ivy always itch