Understanding Poison Ivy/Oak/Sumac
What is it? An allergic skin reaction caused by oil from the leaves, stems, berries, or roots of poison plants. Oil can also be carried on pet fur, clothes, or shoes.
Common Symptoms
- Very itchy rash (often in streaks/lines)
- Redness with blisters that may ooze
- Rash on exposed skin or areas touched by contaminated hands (face, genitals)
- Possible swelling
When to Manage at Home
✅ You can manage your child's poison Ivy/Oak/Sumac at home when:
- Mild rash without spreading redness or swelling
- No signs of infection (pus, increased warmth, spreading redness, fever)
How to Treat at Home
🏠 Home remedies for poison Ivy/Oak/Sumac:
- Oatmeal Bath: 1 cup colloidal oatmeal in lukewarm water, daily
- Cold Compress: 20 min application, as needed
- Cut nails short: Prevents skin damage from scratching
- Wash all clothes/shoes worn at exposure
- Bathe pets that may have been in contact
Safe Medications
- Calamine lotion: Soothes itch, dries oozing blisters
- Hydrocortisone 1% cream: Apply up to 3x/day
- Zyrtec (if over 6 months): Helps reduce itch
- Oral steroids: Only if prescribed for severe swelling/itching
When to Contact Poppins
📱 Contact us again when:
- Rash is worsening after 3–5 days of home care
- New blisters appear days later (possible re-exposure)
- You suspect ongoing contact with poison plant oil
When to Visit Your Pediatrician
🩺 Go to an in-person appointment when:
- Rash lasts more than 3 weeks
- Rash spreads to eyes, mouth, or large areas of the body
- Child is uncomfortable despite home care and safe medications
When to Go to the ER
🚨 Seek immediate emergency care if your child is:
- Trouble breathing or swallowing
- Severe facial or genital swelling
- High fever with rash
- Signs of severe infection (rapidly spreading redness, pus, extreme pain)
If your gut tells you something is wrong, don't hesitate to reach out. Need help? Reconnect with our on-demand team of medical staff available 24/7.
