What causes a poison ivy rash?
Urushiol is a toxic oil found in the poison ivy plant that can cause redness, severe itching and blistering. Contact with the rash-producing oil, urushiol, can occur: • directly by touching the oil on the plant – even when the plant is leafless or dead. This irritant can stay active well after the weeds have died, so make sure to use extreme caution. • indirectly by touching something that has urushiol on it, such as pet fur, gardening tools or clothing Never set fire to poison ivy as airborne particles can cause severe and sometimes life-threatening damage to lungs and skin. Poison ivy rashes can take 10 days or longer to heal. If you come in contact with poison ivy, wash immediately with plain, cool water (soap can move the oil around on the skin). Seek immediate medical attention if you develop severe symptoms such as extreme irritation, excessive blistering or swollen eyes.
