Signs of an Emergency

About 15 percent of the 120 million Americans who are allergic to poison oak, poison ivy, and poison sumac are so highly sensitive that they break out in a rash and begin to swell in 4 to 12 hours instead of the normal 24 to 48. Their eyes may swell shut and blisters may erupt on their skin. This is one of the few true emergencies in dermatolgy says William L. Epstein, MD. Get to a hosipital as soon as possible. A shot of corticosteroids will bring the swelling down.

Viewer Comments on Treatments / Remedies

Prescription / Medical

Viewer suggestions relating to doctors, prescription medications, and other medical field related.

Commercial Products

Viewer suggestions for products that are sold commercially and specifically to treat poison ivy, oak, sumac.

Water-based

Urushiol oil can easily be washed off IF done before the oil bonds. Here are a number of water-based rememdies.

From the Kitchen

Viewer suggested remedies which can be found in your kitchen cabinet.

From the Medicine Chest

Viewer suggested remedies which can be found in the medicine chest.

From the Cleaning Supply Cabinet

Viewer suggestions for remedies which can be found in the cleaning supplies including soaps.

Natural Remedies

Natural remedies most of which are wild plant based.

Homeopathic

homeopathic remedies discussed by viewers.

Care & Control of the Itch

Recommendations for managing the itch from the rash.

Treatment Regimens

Regimens for treating poison ivy outbreaks

Miscellaneous Suggestions

Viewer suggestions that don't fit in the categories above.

WARNINGS!

This page is a MUST read. This page contains warnings from very knowledgeable authorities.

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