The severity of the rash depends on how much oil you come in contact with.
TRAVERSE CITY -- In last week's House Call, we discussed a rash you can get from the beautiful waters of Northern Michigan: Swimmer's Itch. Now, we're talking about a rash you can get from enjoying beautiful Northern Michigan on land Poison Ivy.
"Poison Ivy is an allergic contact dermatitis caused by coming into contact with an oil from the Poison Ivy plant called Urushiol," said Dr. Jennifer Schell from the Traverse Area Pediatric and Adolescent Clinic. "Almost half of children who come in contact with Poison Ivy will have an allergic reaction."
Dr. Schell said typically the skin becomes red and swollen, and blisters develop in steaks or patches, and there is an intense itching and burning. The severity of the rash depends on how much oil you come in contact with.
"The rash is not contagious," said Dr. Schell. "It does not spread from one person to another and the blister fluid does not spread the rash."
Dr. Schell also said, for example, if you walked through Poison Ivy and the oil got on your shoes, then you touched your shoes and got the oil on your hands, then touched your face or stomach, you would develop the rash there.
"The rash develops up to a week after contact, but usually within one to four days, and unfortunately in can last up to a month," said Dr. Schell.
But there isgood news! Dr. Schell said the rash is generally not serious.
"Home remedies include cool compresses, oatmeal baths, calamine lotion or over the counter hydrocortisone to control the itching." said Dr. Schell. "Benadryl may help... And if the rash is widespread, involves the face, or the blisters begin to ooze pus, it's time to see your doctor."
For more information on Poison Ivy, click the video above.
For more information on the Traverse Area Pediatric & Adolescent clinic. click HERE or call 231-421-8099.
