Summer is the ideal time to enjoy outdoor activities in the sun. From hiking to camping to gardening, enjoyment abounds in the warm weather.
But fun can quickly come to a halt if an itchy or painful rash from irritating plants like poison ivy or poison oak creeps up.
Sometimes these conditions can be treated at home, but other times, they become much more than simply an annoyance and can last for weeks or longer.
Fast relief from poison oak and poison ivy
You may have heard the saying, “leaves of three, leave them be,” referring to the tri-leaf plants that are poison oak or poison ivy. Many times, the plants are found in the woods, on trails and even along fences or in parks.
Summer months are prime time for exposure as outdoor activity increases.
An allergic reaction on the skin from poison ivy and poison oak is caused by urushiol, which is an oily substance that instigates the rash
Just a tiny bit of this oil can lead to a painful, irritating rash on the skin.
It can be contracted when you have direct contact with the plant or even with clothing, objects or pets that have been infected.
Symptoms of poison ivy and poison oak usually start within hours of exposure and may include:
- Intense itching
- Oozing
- Blistering
- Redness
- Swelling
- Dry skin
- Cracked skin
- Burning sensation
- Streaky rash
Poison ivy and poison oak rashes can be contained to one area or in some cases may spread to larger areas, even sensitive spots like the face and eyes.
In severe cases, it can cause issues with breathing.
Milder cases may often be managed at home with things like calamine lotion, antihistamines, cortisone cream, an oatmeal bath and cold compresses.
When cases are more severe or progressing, you may require a doctor’s care.
Urgent care can be a wise alternative to a traditional doctor’s office if you have poison oak or poison ivy because you can be seen the same day. We understand how frustrating and irritating these conditions can be!
Your evaluation will determine what the rash is and offer ways to reduce swelling, itching and inflammation while also getting you healed fast.
Treatment may include oral medicine, steroids, prescription cream and more. And it is key to understand that prompt treatment is your best bet when it comes to poison ivy and poison oak.
If left untreated, these conditions can cause infection and other complications.
Caring treatment fast is why people just like you head to Specialty Urgent Care when a need arises.
Here in your time of need
Summer skin problems don’t need to stop all of the summer fun you have planned. No matter if you were exposed to a skin rash through walking, biking, hiking or even working in the yard, we can help.
If you have a rash that appears to be poison ivy or poison oak, you are invited to come to Specialty Urgent Care to get an evaluation and treatment.
With a dedicated, board-certified medical care team, our goal is to see you in a timely fashion and get you on the mend so you can get back to your summer!
And unlike a PCP or emergency room, there are no long wait times to be seen – simply call us or show up! Our experienced doctors are ready to help you when you need it.