Poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac are allergenic plants with an oil called urushiol that typically causes an itchy, inflamed rash. Poison ivy rash is caused by an allergic reaction to an oily resin called urushiol (u-ROO-she-ol). This oil is in the leaves, stems and roots of poison ivy, poison oak and poison sumac.
Poison ivy is a type of allergenic plant in the genus Toxicodendron native to Asia and North America. Formerly considered a single species, Toxicodendron radicans, poison ivies are now generally treated as a complex of three separate species: T. radicans, T.
rydbergii, and T. orientale. Poison ivy exposure symptoms The allergic reaction caused by poison ivy is known as contact dermatitis.
It happens when your skin comes into contact with an irritant, such as urushiol. Poison ivy rash symptoms usually appear quickly - about 12 to 48 hours after contact. Symptoms may last for two to three weeks and almost always require some form of treatment.
Typical symptoms of poison ivy rash include redness, itching, swelling, and blisters. Poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac are among the most common causes of contact dermatitis in the U.S. See pictures of what a poison ivy rash looks like and find out how to treat it.
Poison Ivy - Learn about the causes, symptoms, diagnosis & treatment from the Merck Manuals. Poison ivy, poison oak and poison sumac are poisonous plants that can cause an itchy skin rash. Learn how to identify them and treat your symptoms.
The symptoms of poison ivy, oak, and sumac rash can look like other health conditions. Other plants and chemicals can cause a similar rash. Make sure to see your healthcare provider for a diagnosis.
How is poison ivy, oak, and sumac rash diagnosed? Your healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms and health history. Poison ivy causes millions of itchy rashes every year, yet many people can't identify the common plant. Learn what poison ivy looks like in every season.