Think you might have poison ivy? We’ve laid out your next steps for treatment & when you should walk into AFC Dalton. We’re open daily. 

Sunny days in Dalton call for hikes up Dug Gap Mountain. All day you’ve been subconsciously scratching your leg, and when you get home you find a rash has started to form. You vaguely recall someone on the trail had mentioned a patch of poison ivy, could this be it? What do you do now? 

Skin rashes may be common, but they’re still frustrating. Poison ivy is a condition we frequently see at AFC Dalton. Here’s what our experts have to say about the rash and what your next steps should be. 

Visit AFC Dalton today! 

What Is Poison Ivy? 

Found in most parts of the United States, poison ivy is a plant that commonly grows as a vine or shrub, especially here in Dalton. Typically, a single vine of poison ivy has three leaves – there’s even a rhyme to help you remember: “leaves of three, let it be.” 

Unfortunately, poison ivy is most known for causing an itchy rash. This is due to an oily sap that the plant creates, urushiol. Other pesky plants like poison oak and poison sumac create this same sap.  

What Causes My Skin to Break-out? 

Once your skin touches even the tiniest amount of urushiol an irritating rash categorized as allergic contact dermatitis sets in. Around 85-90% of the population is allergic to urushiol, making this a common case AFC Dalton sees.  

Urushiol is very strong, even the smallest drop (equaling the size of a grain of salt) can trigger a reaction for some people.  

Symptoms of Poison Ivy 

While some people may be more sensitive to poison ivy with symptoms setting in hours after encountering it, for others it might take a few days for any noticeable changes. 

Watch for: 

• A patchy (or streak-like) itchy rash 
• Redness and swelling 
• Blisters that may ooze or crust over 

I Think I’ve Touched Poison Ivy, Now What? 

Don’t panic! Since poison ivy is such a common occurrence in Georgia, it can often be treated from the comfort of your home. Here are some simple steps to help eliminate any rashes. 

1. Rinse your skin immediately. Use soap and lukewarm water for a greater impact. 
2. Use rubber gloves to clean anything that could have also encountered poison ivy. This could include clothing, pets, tools or camping gear.  
3. After everything is clean, use over-the-counter anti-itch cream or calamine lotion to ease the discomfort. 
4. Avoid scratching the rash at all costs (this could lead to infection). 
5. When needed, take oral antihistamines to manage the swelling and irritation (this could also help you sleep better).  
6. Keep the rash clean and dry as it heals. 

Most rashes can be gone within a few days or take up to two weeks to fully heal. Don’t rush the process.  

Does Poison Ivy Require Medical Care? 

If you experience the following signs, or if your poison ivy has not subsided after two weeks seek medical care at AFC Dalton: 

• A rash in your eyes, mouth, nose or genital area 
• Blistering, swelling and pus 
• Increasing irritation and itchiness 
• Fever or difficulty breathing 

How AFC Treats Poison Ivy 

The severity of your rash will determine the right treatment plan for you. Whether you’re looking to reduce itching and swelling or clear up an infected rash, our top-tier AFC providers will prioritize you and your health. 

For poison ivy, we generally recommend: 

• Prescription-strength topical corticosteroids 
• Oral medications 
• Antibiotics 

Can Poison Ivy Be Prevented? 

Preventing poison ivy is all about becoming knowledgeable, being prepared and regularly cleaning outdoor gear. 

Our best suggestions include: 

• Learning to identify poisonous plants like poison ivy, oak and sumac 
• Wearing proper clothing for outdoor activities such as farming, gardening or hiking 
• Washing and wiping down anything that might have touched poison ivy (use rubbing alcohol for items like gardening tools) 
• Don’t forget to wash your pets! Animals are not affected by urushiol, but their fur can transfer the oily sap onto human skin.  

To ensure you don’t contact more urushiol, wear rubber gloves when cleaning items and bathing pets.  

Don’t Let Poison Ivy Get the Best of You 

If you follow the steps laid out in this blog, there’s a high chance your poison ivy will fade. However, if you have a particularly nasty rash, don’t hesitate to walk into our clinic today. We proudly serve Dalton and the surrounding community.  

Our convenient location and extended business hours make us the perfect choice for non-medical emergencies – save your spot today!