Hi Dave -
The reaction to contact with urushiol oil (the secondary compound found in poison ivy, oak, sumace and a number of other plants) is a delayed allergic reaction. Most people on their first contact with the oil do not break out with a rash. You have to sensitize the immune system and so it may take one or several times before you are hit with a reaction. Then for the "first timer" such as yourself, the reaction can be delayed 4 to 10 days. I've read quite a few number for the first time reaction but they generally all fall within this range. So yes it is common for a delayed first time reaction. The bumps will break out over a period of time which could be a few days. It all depends on factors such as how much urushiol oil you came in contact with and where the contact occurred. Thicker skin takes longer for a reaction to occur. The normal course of a rash is about 7 to 10 days. Good luck! |
