Why do rashes develop?
The poison ivy plant contains a chemical substance known as urushiol which is an irritant. This may a defensive mechanism of the plant to protect itself from animals. This irritant substance is responsible for the occurrence of skin rashes. The rashes may develop with varying frequency following exposure to urushiol. It may occur immediately in some individuals who come in contact with the irritant for the first time in their life. In others, the rashes may not develop until the individual has been exposed to the irritant for about 4-5 times. Estimates reveal that about 15–20% of healthy individuals are immune to urushiol and do not develop any skin reactions when exposed to it. Other 80% of the individuals may develop mild to severe symptoms based on the amount of exposure to the poison ivy plant or its other parts. Exposure to poison ivy is usually noted in individuals who are frequently involved in gardening, hiking, camping or playing in the woods. Symptoms The appearance of sympto
