Poison oak can trigger an allergic response to the stems or leaves of the plant. The plant releases urushiol if damaged. The allergen is absorbed into the skin if the plant is touched.
What are the indications?
If an individual is allergic to poison oak, the signs might arise within 1-6 days after exposure. Generally, it manifests within the initial 24-48 hours.
A skin rash or dermatitis is the distinctive sign of a reaction. At first, there is some itchiness, stinging and minor irritation. After some time, the red rash breaks out which becomes itchier. Take note that the rash is worse in sites that were in direct contact with the plant. Bumps will later form and turn into large-sized blisters that drain fluid. After a few days, the blisters start to dry up and form a crust.
The poison oak rash is likely to form around the ankles, wrists and neck where the skin is thin. The rash peaks after a week after exposure and lasts 5-12 days. In rare instances, it can last for a month or longer.
Remedies for a poison oak rash
Generally, the poison oak rash can be managed at home. If exposure occurs, the clothing must be removed. Clothes and other items that were exposed to the plant must be thoroughly washed.
The body parts that were exposed must be thoroughly washed with water and soap. Do not forget to cleanse the hands, fingernails and any site that was exposed to the plant.
The rash can be quite itchy and urges the individual to scratch the site but doing so can cause an infection. A lukewarm bath or cool shower can also help lessen the itchiness.
Some over-the-counter measures such as hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion can briefly reduce the itchiness. A cold compress can be applied on the itchy patches. An oral antihistamine can also ease the itchiness.