A 42-year-old member asked:
How do i make poison ivy go away?
2 doctor answers • 7 doctors weighed in
Dr. Jack Mutnickanswered
Allergy and Immunology 18 years experience
Topical: Cold compresses, no scrubbing but gentle hypoallergenic cleansing of the site, topical anti-itch cream (if no open sores, blisters of lesions) and oral antihistamines to keep the itch down. Wear long pants next time!
6k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Stevan Cordas commented
Internal Medicine 58 years experience
If it is disseminated and not in one area and severe, steroids are used. If very early you might try to neutralize the part in clorox water topically as this will often neutralize the chemical that creates the problem.
Mar 17, 2012
Dr. David Shulananswered
Allergy and Immunology 42 years experience
Best to avoid: If you wash off the juice from poison ivy in 30 minutes you can avoid the rash otherwise corticosteroids topical or if extensive oral steroids are needed.If there is the rash around your eyes seek medical attention immediately as poison ivy in the eye can lead to blindness. Antihistamines may help the itch minimmaly, but do not help the rash. Wash all materials and clothes that touch the poison ivy.
6k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
Similar questions
A 38-year-old member asked:
Can you tell me when does poison ivy go away?
1 doctor answer • 2 doctors weighed in
Dr. Brant Wardanswered
Allergy and Immunology 14 years experience
About a week: Rash comes from an immune reaction to oils in the poison ivy plant. Once the rash appears, it make take a week +/- a few days to resolve. Corticosteroid ointments (e.g. Hydrocortizone) can improve symptoms and may speed recovery in some cases. Severe symptoms may require treatment with an oral medication like prednisone. If your symptoms are bothersome or the rash extensive, see your doctor.
5k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Last updated Nov 26, 2013
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