Glossary of Health Terms

Poison ivy, oak and sumac are the most common allergies in the country. Even if you have never had an allergic reaction to poison ivy, oak or sumac before, you can develop an allergy to these plants at any point in your life. The rash causing oil of these plants, urushiol, can be spread by many things such as shoes, clothes, garden utensils, fur of animals, and even the smoke of a burning poison ivy, oak or sumac plant. Because it is so easy to come in contact with these plants the painful itching rash that they cause is quite common.

Is it Poison Ivy, Poison Oak, or Poison Sumac?

The reaction to poison ivy, oak and sumac can begin as early as an hour after contact or up to five days after contact. The rash usually starts with swelling and itching and then is followed by a red inflammation of pimples and blisters.

People that have come in contact with poison ivy, oak or sumac can develop swelling in the throat, dizziness, a burning feeling, weakness, and breathing problems. The reaction can vary in harshness from person to person and individuals can have varied reactions from year to year.

How Did I Come in Contact With Poison Ivy, Poison Oak, or Poison Sumac?

Poison ivy, oak and sumac can be spread very easily and it may be hard to determine how you came in contact with the plant. Of course touching the plant can cause you to contract the rash, but you can also contract it from touching your shoes or clothing if you had walked through the plant.

The oil from poison ivy, oak and sumac plants can even be transmitted through the smoke from burning these plants. And even though pets rarely contract the rash from poison ivy, oak or sumac, the oil from these plants can be transmitted from their fur.

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