Poison Ivy Research
Poison ivy is a condition of contact dermatitis in which the skin is infected by the poison ivy plant. The poison ivy plant is in the family of plants of poison oak and sumac. It is composed of leaves with three shiny leaflets which produce oil that will quickly cause an allergy reaction shortly after contact. The incubation period is a few hours, after which a rash will begin in a small area; it will spread if not treated promptly. It is extremely contagious and care should be taken that no one touches anything that has any of the oil on it. The rash causes an itch that is sometimes so severe that it is difficult not to scratch. Scratching may break the skin and this will open up a secondary infection.
The exposure to poison oak could be direct contact with the oil produced by the plant. It could also come from indirect contact from anything that is touched with the oil produced by the plant. It could also be transmitted by animals who have touched a plant since the
oil sticks to their fur. The animals also could contribute to the exposure by leaving the oil on anything touched by the animals
Early treatment begins by cleaning the infected area with a mild soap and cold water. Blisters usually develop from poison ivy but the blisters should not be cut open. They could be covered with dry bandages to protect the skin from infection. Also, many over the counter creams or ointments will relieve and benefit poison ivy; a doctor should be consulted if there is any uncertainty about the diagnosis. If the rash is severe, a doctor can direct the most effective treatment.
