According to the American Skin Association, 50 million people suffer from poison ivy, poison oak, or poison sumac every year. If you’ve ever had the misfortune of coming into contact with one of these pesky plants, you know just how irritating they can be. The itchy, blistering rash they cause is enough to ruin any outdoor adventure. So, let’s dive into how you can spot poison ivy, poison oak, or poison sumac, treat the rash if you do come into contact with them, and most importantly, how to avoid them altogether.
Spotting Poison Ivy, Poison Oak, and Poison Sumac
Poison Ivy
Poison Ivy is probably the most well-known of the three. It typically has three pointed leaves per stem, which has led to the old saying, “Leaves of three, let it be.” The leaves can be smooth or slightly toothed, and they turn red in the fall. Poison ivy can grow as a vine or a shrub, depending on its environment.
Check out photos of poison ivy here.
Poison Oak
Poison Oak also follows the “leaves of three” rule but tends to look a bit different. Its leaves are usually lobed and resemble oak leaves, hence the name. Poison oak typically grows as a shrub and can sometimes be found as a vine in the Southeastern United States.
Check out photos of poison oak here.
Poison Sumac
Poison Sumac is less common but no less irritating. This plant has a different leaf pattern, featuring 7 to 13 leaflets arranged in pairs with a single leaflet at the end. Poison sumac often grows as a woody shrub or small tree, primarily found in wet, swampy areas. Its leaves are smooth-edged and can turn bright red in the fall.
Check out photos of poison sumac here.
Treatment: What to Do if You Come into Contact
Despite your best efforts, sometimes you might still brush up against these plants. According to the Journal of the American Medical Association, here’s what to do if that happens:
- Wash Immediately: As soon as possible, wash the affected area with soap and water. It’s also important to scrub under your nails, using a brush if possible. The sooner you do this, the better chance you have of removing the oil (urushiol) that causes the rash.
- Clean Your Gear: Urushiol can stick to your clothing, shoes, and even pet fur. Make sure to wash everything that might have come into contact with the plant.
- Apply Over-the-Counter Treatments: If you do develop a rash (see photos of the different rashes here) – which can occur anywhere from 24 hours to 3 weeks after exposure – products like calamine lotion, hydrocortisone cream, or antihistamines can help reduce itching and swelling. Oatmeal baths and astringents can help dry out the rash.
- Seek Medical Attention if Needed: If the rash is severe, widespread, or involves sensitive areas like your face or genitals, it’s a good idea to consult a healthcare provider. In these cases, they may prescribe oral or intramuscular steroids.
Regardless of how bad the rash is, try your best to avoid scratching it. Scratching can lead to infection and prolong the healing process.
Avoiding These Plants: Prevention is Key
The best way to avoid the uncomfortable aftermath of these plants is to steer clear of them altogether. Here are some tips:
- Learn to Identify Them: Spend some time looking at pictures of poison ivy, oak, and sumac so you can recognize them in the wild. See side-by-side comparison.
- Wear Protective Clothing: When hiking or working in areas where these plants might grow, wear long sleeves, long pants, and gloves.
- Stick to the Path: When hiking, stay on established trails and avoid wandering into areas with thick underbrush.
- Use Barriers: Consider using barrier creams that are designed to block urushiol from reaching your skin. Examples of barrier creams include Ivy-X® or Ivy Block®.
Recap
While poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac are common nuisances, knowing how to identify, treat, and avoid them can save you from a lot of discomfort. With a little knowledge and preparation, you can enjoy the great outdoors without the itch. So next time you’re out and about, keep your eyes peeled and remember: leaves of three, let it be!
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