Inspired by the small yet extremely annoying rash on my hand right now. What is actually happening to you when you are infected with poison ivy and why?
In: 301
It is an inflammatory/allergic response to the oil on the plant *(urushiol*) that creates the rash.
Tips for you and others:
*The oil can last for over a year on clothing/footwear unless washed.
*The rash does NOT spread by scratching it. Only the oil from the plant can spread the rash.
*You can NOT spread the rash to others unless the oil is still on your skin/clothes.
*If you wash your skin thoroughly quickly after exposure, it should prevent a rash.
*Do not burn poison ivy without careful consideration. It can get in to your lungs.
*Some people are not allergic to it at all!
Latest Answers