With the rapidly increasing number of the cases of childhood obesity and more and more people choosing video games and TV over outdoor games, most parents love it when they see their children playing outside. However, there are a number of factors these days which prevent a number of parents from allowing their kids to play outdoors.

Some of the common factors include harsh sunrays, bugs, rising crime rate, and the like. Amongst all these factors, another problem that many kids face while playing outdoors is the allergy caused due to poison ivy. Poison ivy is known to be a big hazard for gardeners, campers, hikes, and all people who spend their time outdoors.

Poison ivy is actually a plant which causes allergy contact dermatitis, or simply a skin rash, when it comes in contact with the skin of a person. The rash is often red, itchy, and extremely uncomfortable and appears in the form of streaks or lines. These rashes can be distinguished by large raised area called hives, or fluid-filled bumps known as blisters.

The cause behind poison ivy rash

The poison ivy rash is actually caused due to an oil, known as urushiol, that is found in the poison ivy plant. This oil exists in all parts of this plant, including its stems, leaves, fruits, flowers, as well as roots. The oil Urushiol is actually an allergen; thus the rash is caused due to an allergic reaction towards the oil.

In fact, even indirect contact with this oil can lead to this rash. For instance, touching clothing, sporting gear, garden tools, pet fur, or any other object that might have come in contact with the poison ivy plant can result in rash.

Common Symptoms of Poison Ivy Rash

The usual symptoms witnessed when a person suffers from poison ivy rash include:

•    Redness or red streaks in the area where the plant touched the skin.
•    Itchiness in the area where the plant came in contact with the skin.
•    Tiny bumps or large raised areas, called hives.
•    Small blisters filled with dense fluid, which might leak out.

Usually, the rash appears within 10 to 48 hours after coming in contact with urushiol. However, it may occur even after 15 days of the incident. The first time your skin comes in contact with urushiol, it may take up to a week for the rash to develop. However, in later contacts, it would develop much quicker. The rash may develop in different areas of the body over the next few days but only in those areas where the plant brushes against your skin or to the parts where it spread by touching.

A number of great natural treatments and home remedies exist that can help you get relief from poison ivy rash. Calamine lotion is one of the most trusted cures for poison ivy, and does not cost much. However, it is known to be extremely effective in reducing itching even if you have to walk around in pink skin while the treatment is going on. Some other effective home remedies that are known to be effective in treating poison ivy rash include:

Oatmeal

To get rid of poison ivy rash and its symptoms, boil some oatmeal in hot water just like you do for eating it. Allow it to cool for some time, and then apply directly to the area where the rash exists. This mixture should ideally be applied till a thick layer is formed on the surface. Allow the mixture to dry and harden on the skin before you remove it. This method of treating poison ivy is often combined with baking soda to get additional relief from oozing and itching.

Baking Soda

Prepare a mixture by combining 3 teaspoons baking soda with a single teaspoon of water till you get a thick paste. Apply this paste directly to the rash and allow it to dry. This is considered to be a great tried-and-tested method for bringing relief to all poison ivy sufferers. Some people also get relief from soaking their entire body in bath water mixed with baking soda.

Vinegar

Vinegar is known to eliminate all the ‘poison’ from the poison ivy rash and helps it to heal; however, it smells quite bad. Apple cider vinegar or white distilled vinegar are the best choices when it comes to treating poison ivy rash. Simply sprinkle the vinegar liberally on the blister or rash to get relief from itch instantly.

Banana Peel

Banana peals are considered to be a ‘miracle cure’ for treating poison ivy rash and its symptoms. Many people believe that this cure works, even when all their home remedies fail to work. Simply rub the inner side of the banana peel directly on the rash to get instant cooling relief.

Aloe Vera Gel

As you must be aware, Aloe Vera gel treating in bringing relief in case of sunburn and minor skin cuts. Applying this gel liberally on the poison ivy rash can also help it to heal, while soothing the itching as well.

Dish washing Liquid

Though it might sound quite surprising, but dish washing liquid contains anti-grease agents that can help bring relief from poison ivy, if applied in abundant amounts directly from the bottle with full strengths. Wash off using plain water and get instant relief.

Treatments for Severe Poison Ivy Cases

If the poison ivy rash becomes too severe, it becomes very important to visit a doctor immediately or visit an emergency room facility. Sometimes, an allergic reaction can turn into a fatal disease if proper medical care is not given. Burning the poison ivy plant and inhaling its smoke can badly damage the lunges, sinus, and many other parts of the body and lead to numerous complications.

In such cases also, medical treatment should be taken immediately. Also, if the rash appears to be severe, be careful before using any kind of remedy, as there is a chance that it may irritate the rash further or damage the skin. Otherwise, in minor cases, using home remedies and lotions is the best option to treat poison ivy.

Photo Credit: Wuzywged.blogspot.com