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Poison Ivy/Poison Oak/Poison Sumac

A walk in the woods or garden may become an itchy experience if you encounter poison ivy, poison oak, or poison sumac. Contact with these plants usually occurs when you’re pulling weeds or cleaning up at the cabin, gardening around the edges of the lawn, or exploring in wooded areas.


Causes

Symptoms

Treatment

Prevention

Self-Care

Related topics
Printable Version
What to do About Poison Ivy/ Poison Oak/Poison Sumac
Mild itching; self-care effective in treating discomfort Symptoms can usually be treated at home. If symptoms persist, you should call your doctor for advice.
Rash covering a large area or involving the face, eyes, or genitals Symptoms may be treated at home or they may require a visit to your doctor. Usually you and your doctor need to share additional information about your condition to decide what is best for you.
Rash that does not improve after self-care  Symptoms may be treated at home or they may require a visit to your doctor. Usually you and your doctor need to share additional information about your condition to decide what is best for you.
Increased redness, tenderness, red streaks, or fever Symptoms need to be evaluated by a doctor. When you call to make an appointment, your doctor will help you determine how soon you need to be seen.
Severe swelling from rash  Symptoms need to be evaluated by a doctor. When you call to make an appointment, your doctor will help you determine how soon you need to be seen.
Symptoms rapidly worsening  Symptoms need to be evaluated by a doctor. When you call to make an appointment, your doctor will help you determine how soon you need to be seen.

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