Health

Be Aware of the Dangers of Poisonous Plants This Summer

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     In Louisiana, it’s nearly impossible to avoid coming into contact with poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac plants. These plants result in a rash for those allergic to them, caused by a chemical in the sap. According to the Louisiana Heart, Lung and Vascular Center, about 50%-70% of people are sensitized to this chemical and are, therefore, allergic. Virtually everyone will eventually become sensitized if repeatedly exposed.
    The allergic reactions to poison ivy, oak, and sumac occur when sensitized people come in contact with urushiol oil. This oil is found in the roots, stems, leaves, and fruit of the plant. This oil is released if the plant is damaged or bruised. If not washed, oil from these plants may stay potent for years on clothing, tools, toys, and other items, especially in dry conditions.
    Sensitized people are at risk if they: 
  • Work or play in wooded areas during the spring, summer, and fall
  • Touch pets or animals that have come in contact with these plants
  • Handle clothes or objects that have come in contact with these plants
  • Are exposed to the smoke of these plants if they are burned
    The main symptom of poison oak, ivy, or sumac is an intensely itchy, red rash. The rash appears within 24-72 hours of exposure to the oil. The rash often appears streaked and may develop into oozing blisters. The oozing material will not sensitize others, but the skin rash may cause discomfort. It is not serious, though, and usually resolves on its own in 1-2 weeks. However, you should contact a doctor right away if you are highly sensitive or have the following symptoms: 
  • Swelling of the face or throat
  • Rash on the genitals
  • Swelling or rash that covers more than one third of your body
  • Rapidly spreading rash
  • Signs of a bacterial infection, such as pain, increased redness, or pus
    If you have been exposed to poison ivy, oak, or sumac, wash your entire body immediately. You can reduce your chance of getting a rash if you wash thoroughly with soap and water within 10-15 minutes of exposure. Using alcohol and water, wash all clothes, tools, and shoes that were in contact with the plant. One small study shows that cleaning with the oil-removing compound “Goop” or the poison-ivy prevention substance “Tecnu” is more effective than using soap alone. All three treatments reduced the occurrence of skin rash by more than 50% following contact.    
    If a rash develops, the itching and blisters will usually disappear in 7-14 days without treatment. Treatment to reduce discomfort includes: 
  • Cool compresses with water or whole milk
  • Oral antihistamines
  • Over-the-counter medications: 
  • Calamine lotion
  • Zinc oxide or baking soda (to dry oozing blisters)
  • Diluted aluminum acetate solution (Burow's solution)
Steroid medications: 
Cortisone creams—can relieve symptoms and may also shorten the duration of the rash 
These are available over-the-counter (much weaker) and by prescription.
Oral corticosteroids—may be prescribed in severe cases
    If you are diagnosed with a rash from poison ivy, oak, or sumac, follow your doctor's instructions. For more information, visit www.lacvmd.com.
 
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