Re: major swelling, bumps spreading|
Hi Matt -
I'm glad you went to the doctor. Did the doctor think you had an infection? Otherwise, the antibiotics are of little value. As for the steroids, yeah there are some pretty nasty side effects. You have to weigh the pros / cons and make an informed decision. Some people have done very well with steroids. As I've never had steroids to treat poison ivy rash, I can't really comment.
The delayed rash on the hands and fingers actually isn't that uncommon. The skin is much thicker there and takes longer for the urushiol oil to enter the lower layers, bond, and cause a reaction. The thin spots like face, inside of arms, behind knees, etc. are where you will see the first breakouts. I mention this as it helps to understand the hows / whys of the rash.
If you've been given an oral steroid, be sure that it is a long enough course. You don't want a rebound rash. Here's my response to another person about the rash and I have pointers to physician sites which discuss rebound rash:
Help!! Nothing is helping for PI!!
I am not a doctor and only give this as additional information to help you make an informed decision.
Man - what a way to start summer. Well let's hope that this will be your only rash of the year!
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