A member asked:

Please share an interesting fact about dealing with poison ivy and poison oak.

17 doctors weighed in across 13 answers

Ignore: Scratching it will spread it! wash your clothes separately after exposure.

Answered 5/20/2017

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Ignore: Washing the exposed skin immediately with soap and water will likely prevent a rash.

Answered 1/11/2018

4.1k views

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Dr. Alan Anthony answered

Specializes in Dermatology

Ignore: Zanfel is an over the counter cream that neutralizes the offending poison ivy oil.

Answered 5/1/2014

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Dr. Ryan Phasouk answered

Specializes in Family Medicine

Washing: Washing yourself even after two hours of exposure can be beneficial.

Answered 6/7/2014

4k views

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Dr. Ryan Phasouk answered

Specializes in Family Medicine

Poison: Poison ivy can appear differently if contracted from your pet.

Answered 6/7/2014

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Dr. Ryan Phasouk answered

Specializes in Family Medicine

A: A rash from poison ivy can become infected with bacteria.

Answered 9/28/2016

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Dr. Bradford Romans answered

Specializes in Internal Medicine

Ignore: Short term high-dose steroids may be required for moderate to severe cases.

Answered 7/30/2014

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Ignore: Throughout aching with soapy water after exposures can prevent issues.

Answered 7/7/2014

3.9k views

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Ignore: Avoid the plants; Use blocking creams like Ivy Block and wash skin immediately after exposure.

Answered 6/11/2017

3.8k views

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Dr. Glynis Ablon answered

Specializes in Dermatology

Ignore: It is really important to cut nails and scrub down as this is where the resin of the plant is spread.

Answered 11/21/2014

3.8k views

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Dr. Michael Rupp answered

Specializes in Allergy and Immunology

Ignore: The rash is caused by a resin in the plant getting on your skin and causing a contact dermatitis.

Answered 1/16/2019

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Dr. Justin Greiwe answered

Specializes in Allergy and Immunology

Ignore: Immediately washing with a detergent soap after exposure can reduce risk of developing rash.

Answered 4/28/2015

2.9k views

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Dr. Tipu Sultan answered

Specializes in Allergy

Avoid: Avoid contact. Wash area if exposed. At the first sign of rash apply OTC hydrocortisone.

Answered 6/14/2015

2.7k views

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