Poison ivy rash is a painful, itchy rash caused by an allergic reaction to the oil on poison ivy leaves. While there’s no way to get rid of a poison ivy rash immediately, there are several treatments that can help relieve symptoms fast.

Treatments for Poison Ivy Rash

Over-the-counter treatments such as calamine lotion, colloidal oatmeal baths, and hydrocortisone cream can provide quick relief from poison ivy symptoms. Cold compresses and Burow’s solution can also help to reduce itching and prevent the rash from spreading.

Calamine lotion is a popular treatment for poison ivy rash. It creates a cooling sensation on the skin, which can quickly relieve itching. To use calamine lotion, wash your skin with warm water and gentle soap, gently pat the rash dry, and then apply the lotion using a cotton ball or clean cloth.

Oatmeal baths are another effective home remedy for itchy skin. Colloidal oatmeal helps to relieve minor skin irritation and itching. You can make an oatmeal bath at home using uncooked, unflavored oatmeal or buy ready-to-use colloidal oatmeal bath packets at retail pharmacies and grocery stores.

Preventing the Rash from Spreading

Poison ivy rash spreads when the oil from the plant touches your skin. To prevent the rash from spreading, take off any clothes that may have touched the plant, wash your skin with soap and water, and clean underneath your fingernails. Wash clothing and shoes before using them again, and bathe pets if they spend time outdoors near poison ivy.

If you experience severe symptoms, such as a rash on your face or genitals, or if the rash is over large areas of skin, seek medical care. You may need to take oral steroids to reduce swelling, itching, and redness from the rash.

Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.