Prevention is the best cure for poison ivy. The rash takes about two weeks to heal, provided infection with bacteria does not occur. Urushiol causes redness and swelling followed by blisters and severe itching. It can be carried on the fur of animals, on tools or sports equipment - just about anything that came into contact with the poisonous plant. Sticky, colorless and odorless urushiol is very easily spread - you don't need to actually touch the plant itself to come in contact with it. It is caused by a substance called urushiol (you-ROO-shee-ol) in the sap of the plants. The rash caused by these plants is called an allergic contact dermatitis. Sometimes, these plants appear as a vine while in other places they appear as shrubs. Some have three leaves, while others have groups of five, seven or nine. Although many plants have three leaves, their appearance may vary depending on location. Poison Ivy, sumac and oak grow everywhere in the United States except Hawaii, Alaska and some deserts in Nevada. This is the most common allergic reaction in the U.S., and affects as many as 50 million Americans each year. Be sure to wash your hands before and after you use the washroom.About 85 percent of the population is allergic to poison ivy, poison sumac or poison oak, and about 10 to 15 percent are extremely allergic.Wash well or throw away anything that came into contact with the plants.Rubber (latex), cotton, or wool gloves offer no protection. These products are available over the counter.

Use a cream or lotion to help prevent the plant oil from getting on your skin.

The best way to prevent future rashes is to learn to identify these plants and avoid them. Calamine lotion may help relieve symptoms of a plant rash.

Avoid most lotions and ointments until the rash heals.

Wash all clothing or other things that may have come in contact with the plant oil.Take warm or cool baths with oatmeal bath products, such as Aveeno.

Use cold, wet cloths to reduce itching.Call your doctor or nurse advice line if you think you are having a problem with your medicine. If your doctor prescribed medicine, take it exactly as prescribed. If your doctor prescribed a cream, use it as directed.

Skin poison