A 41-year-old member asked:
whats the best treatment for poison ivy or oak?
1 doctor answer • 5 doctors weighed in
Dr. Donald Shenenberger answered
Dermatology 25 years experience
Many: There are several things that can help. Probably the most common things are otc, like calamine lotion and topical steroids. Sometimes patients need prescription topical steroids and others require systemic steroids. It really depends on each patient and the severity of the reaction.
5860 views
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Similar questions
GA
A 54-year-old member asked:
Best treatment for poison ivy?
4 doctor answers • 7 doctors weighed in
Dr. Robert Kwok answered
Pediatrics 33 years experience
Steroids (cortisone): Poison ivy or poison oak rashes are allergic reactions caused by contact with the plants. The plant sap can be on clothes, bedding, car seats, etc..., so thorough cleaning is needed. Treatment is with steroid creams in mild cases but oral steroids in moderate or severe cases. Oral antihistamines like Claritin, Zyrtec, or Benadryl (diphenhydramine) help decrease itching. A doctor can prescribe steroids if needed.
6304 views
Johnston, RI
A 35-year-old male asked:
What is the best way to treat poison ivy?
2 doctor answers • 3 doctors weighed in
Dr. Marya Cassandra answered
Dermatology 20 years experience
OTC Hydrocortisone: First, ensure that your items of clothing that could have come into contact with the poison ivy are washed well to avoid re-exposure. Try over the counter Hydrocortisone and calamine lotion. Also Benadryl (diphenhydramine) can be helpful. If this doesn't work, your doctor can rx you stronger topicals or even oral Prednisone if it is severe.
5676 views
A 40-year-old member asked:
What are the best meds for poison ivy or sumac?
1 doctor answer • 1 doctor weighed in
Dr. Michael Sparacino answered
Family Medicine 37 years experience
Aviodance: First avoid if possible. Wash with soapy water, then keep clean and dry. If a rash erupts, see your doctor for steroid containing medications.
5620 views
A 39-year-old member asked:
What work best to treat poison ivy or oak?
1 doctor answer • 2 doctors weighed in
Dr. David Shulan answered
Allergy and Immunology 41 years experience
Corticosteroids: First, you must avoid the exposure and wash all clothing and tools that might have the sap on them as the sap can be active for up to 6 months. Mild cases can respond to topical steroid creams but more extensive or severe cases need oral corticosteroids. Poin ivy on the eye can cause blindness and needs to evaluated and treated by a physician immediately. Antihistamines will not clear the rash.
5194 views
A 44-year-old member asked:
What is the best treatment for poison ivy on eyelids?
2 doctor answers • 4 doctors weighed in
Dr. Jeffrey Whitman answered
Ophthalmology 45 years experience
Steroid cream: Just as on the arms or legs, the treatment is symptom driven. Over the counter steroid cream 2-3 times a day for 3-5 days should help. Try not to get it in the eye itself as it can irritate and blur the vision.
4767 views
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Last updated Aug 12, 2018
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