Please see my message to Sarah a few days ago. click here for message. I have read in many references by medical professionals that too short a course of oral steroids often causes a rebound rash. I have additional references beyond what I have listed in that message if you are interested. You should read this material and then discuss it with your doctor.

FYI - I have read several times that oral steroids should not be prescribed unless this is a severe outbreak. This should be considered a last resort. The normal course for a poison ivy rash is 1 to 2 weeks. Systemic (ie breathing in smoke from burning pi plant) can last up to 5 weeks.