A 37-year-old member asked:
How dangerous is poison ivy?
1 doctor answer • 4 doctors weighed in
Dr. David Rosenthalanswered
Allergy and Immunology 23 years experience
Very itchy: Not very dangerous usually, but very itchy and uncomfortable. Don't spread it, and treat it locally.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.7k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
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A 44-year-old member asked:
What should I do for poison ivy?
7 doctor answers • 16 doctors weighed in
Dr. Michael Zacharisenanswered
Allergy and Immunology 35 years experience
Avoid: Poison ivy is a common form of allergic contact dermatitis to the oleoresin of rhus plants. Depending on location and severity of symptoms, mild to potent steroid ointments are usually sufficient. If symptoms are widespread or severe, Prednisone may be needed and tapered over 2-3 weeks. Oatmeal baths and zyrtec (cetirizine) may help. Ultimately best thing is to recognize these plants and avoid them.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.4k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Last updated Jun 29, 2018
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