Do you have a rash that has suddenly appeared after being outside? In the summertime there are many different circumstances that can lead to skin irritation and cause a rash. Exposure to poison ivy is common during the warmer months if you’re someone who spends a lot of time outdoors. It can grow anywhere, including in urban spaces, and contact with a poison ivy plant causes a very irritated and itchy skin rash for most people. If you’re experiencing an itchy skin rash, it could be caused by exposure to poison ivy. Keep reading to learn more about how to identify a poison ivy rash, and treatment options available.
If you have a skin rash and are looking for rapid treatment, AFC Urgent Care Back Bay can help. Our walk-in clinic is located in Boston, MA, and we’re open 7 days a week on a walk-in basis. Simply walk in when it’s convenient, or save your spot online in advance below.
How to Identify a Poison Ivy Rash
Poison ivy is a common plant that can easily disguise itself among grass and other plants. Upon contact, poison ivy leaves release an oil which can lead to a very itchy and red rash. Poison ivy rashes typically appear within 24 hours of exposure, and can often be easily identified because they are extremely itchy. If you have a rash that appeared suddenly after you spent time outside and is very itchy, you likely have a poison ivy rash.
Can Poison Ivy Rashes Spread to Others?
Poison ivy rashes typically only affect the area that came into contact with the poison ivy plant. However, clothing can also transfer the oil from the plant to other body parts. This can happen when you are doing laundry after a hike, and unknowingly touch an area of clothing that has the plant oils on it. The rash caused by poison ivy exposure is not contagious, however, it is possible to get a poison ivy rash from clothing that has come into contact with the plant.
Treatment Options for Poison Ivy Exposure
If you develop a rash caused by poison ivy, you probably are desperately seeking relief from the itching and irritation. Poison ivy rashes typically last 2 to 3 weeks, and there is no medication available to cure it quickly. Instead you can use at-home methods to limit itching and stay comfortable while the rash resolves. Intervening immediately if you know you have come into contact with a poison ivy plant is essential. You can use rubbing alcohol or soap and water to scrub the affected area and remove the oil from your skin. Although this method is not fool proof, it may help reduce the reaction severity.
Visit AFC Back Bay for Rapid Same-Day Poison Ivy Treatment
If you come into contact with poison ivy, it is important to take immediate action to reduce symptoms. Poison ivy rashes can be extremely uncomfortable, and itching the rash can open up the skin and cause an infection. If you’re in need of rapid relief from a skin rash, AFC Back Bay can help. Our board-certified medical providers are available 7 days a week to provide walk-in care for minor conditions all summer long.
Our clinic is conveniently located in Boston’s Back Bay neighborhood, and we don’t require patients to schedule an appointment in advance. Simply walk in when it’s convenient. We’re open 7 days a week from 8am to 8pm. Our clinic works with most medical insurance plans and has affordable rates for patients paying out-of-pocket for their care. To learn more, give us a call at (617) 869-0500.
