When an oily resin called urushiol comes in contact with the skin, it causes an allergic reaction. This allergic reaction is called by poison ivy and is called a poison ivy rash. Urushiol oil is called by the oil in the stem, roots and leaves of a poison sumac, poison oak and poison ivy. It is sticky and easily attaches to your skin, any equipment you use, clothing and pet’s fur.To avoid developing a poison ivy rash, it is important to wash your skin right away if you come in contact with oily resin. Washing urushiol from your skin immediately will not stop you from getting poison ivy, but can reduce your chances of developing the rash.
Developing a poison ivy rash may cause signs and symptoms for weeks. You may treat mild cases of poison ivy at home with cool baths and smoothing lotions. However, more severe poison ivy rash or a rash that is more widespread, especially on your genitals or face, may require prescription medication.
