Poison Ivy Remedies
Interesting Facts on Poison Ivy Remedies
Those tell-tale blisters and itchiness are proof that you somehow came in contact with urushiol; now you need some poison ivy remedies to relieve that horrible itching.
Poison ivy is caused by the oil in the leaves of the plant; a resin called urushiol. The symptoms, including rash, itching and small blisters, generally begin to appear within 8 to 10 hours after contact of the oil. There are several effective poison ivy remedies, both commercial and homemade, that can relieve the symptoms, although the condition will still need to run its course.
To relieve the itching of poison ivy, remedies such as Aveeno, Burt’s Bee’s Poison Ivy Soap, Calamine Lotion, Cortizone 10 and Gold Bond Anti-Itch Cream can be applied according to the directions on the package. Cessation of the intense itching can last anywhere from 30 minutes to a few hours using these manufactured products. Since different symptoms can occur in different people, so does the success of each of these products. One may bring immense relief to some while doing very little for others.
A very hot shower, as hot as can be handled, has been reported by many rash sufferers to be one of their favorite poison ivy remedies; providing long lasting relief of the itching. A hot bath containing regular oatmeal and baking soda is a great soak that brings respite to scratchers, as well. In between these, applying a cloth that has been soaked in a solution of water and Domeboro Astringent and then refrigerated is especially soothing and refreshing.
Sometimes, the old tried and true poison ivy remedies fail. This is the time that a trip to a medical professional is needed. Prolonged agony from the blisters and itching, or a more severe reaction causing stomach cramps and nausea require immediate medical attention. Doctors may prescribe a course of prednosone, a form of cortisone, to eliminate the urushiol from your system. Often, the scratching that sometimes just can’t be helped opens a wound in the skin, allowing bacteria to enter and infection results. A doctor has the ability to accurately diagnose the skin issues and make recommendations for treatment that will hasten healing.
Avoidance of the poisonous plants containing urushiol is obviously the best of all poison ivy remedies. If you will walking through an area that is known to contain the plants, using an application of Ivy Block on all exposed areas can prevent the oil from adhering to the skin. Wearing protective clothing is also recommended; long pants, socks and shoes will keep the plant from brushing against the skin. In any case, if your clothing has come into contact with the plants, take extreme care in removing them and wash them immediately.
The best poison ivy remedies may differ from person to person. Those blisters and itching will eventually diminish, but you can be much more comfortable if you find the right remedy for you.