How do I stop poison ivy?

Question

How do I stop poison ivy?

Answer 1

Don't allow affected areas to touch non-affected areas to prevent spreading.  Use cortisone cream to help the itch.  It has to heal on its own.  If it is severe, you may need to be seen by your physician for prescription help.

Answer 2

learn to recognize it so you don't go running through it.

Answer 3

use calamine lotion and baking soda baths(1 cup baking soda) to a full tub of water.  make sure all clothing and anything else that got in it gets washed.

Answer 4

I am the 'queen of Poison Ivy'.  Anything you want to know, I can tell you...

1st, it is a myth that the oozing will spread the PI.  PI is spread by direct contact with Urushiol oil which is the toxic that is found in PI plants.  It can stay 'active' for up to 1 year or so, on clothing, shoes, etc...  You can not get PI on the soles of your feet or the palms of your hands either.  You can also get PI any time of the year.  Just because there is snow on the ground doesn't mean anything.  The vine, although dormant, still contains the oil, and at much higher levels than the leaves.  

If you think you've gotten into a patch, wash with COLD water and soap.  Never use warm or hot water, this will cause your pores to open, and allow more of the Urushiol into your skin.  Also, as bad as it is, try not to cover the blisters.  This will just keep the skin damp, and not allow the fluids to drain, and hence dry out.  

Once you get PI, there is no way to stop it.  It has to run its course - usually 2-4 weeks.  It is unpleasant, but there is not much you can do about it.  Try using an OTC antihistamine to stop the itch.

If it is very bad, go to your Dr.  They will give you a prescription for pred, and possibly a topical cream or tape to cover the area.  

When I get PI, I've become very allergic to it, so I'm usually on pred for 1 month or more, and have the oozing blisters for 6-8 weeks.

Once you get PI, your reactions become stronger and stronger to it.  Unlike most things, you don't build up an immunity to it.  

Good luck!