Last weekend, I suffered a terrible bout of poison
ivy while working in the yard of a new home.
This is what I learned:
If you know you’ve been exposed to
the plant immediately wash with
a cleaner called Tecnu, which is specifically
designed to neutralize the plant oil.
Wash double wash everyting thoughly
(super important). Also, make absolutely sure
you wash any exposed clothing, as the oil can
linger on clothing and tools, causing reinfliction.
If you do have a reaction to the plant
it will take 1-2 weeks to heal untreated or
several days using prescription drugs All the over
the counter medication I initially tried were
worthless, including cortiad, benadryl, calamine
etc. Best bet is to go to the doctor as quickly
as possible and get topical steriod cream
(diprelene) and an oral antihistimes (Zyrtec?)
For super severe cases a steriod injection
may be prescribed.
Hot as you can stand showers will offer some
temporary itch relief. Wrapping the affected part
in banage helps to sleep to at night.
Of course the best is just to know how to
recognize and avoid this vile class of
plants.
-Keith
