Poison ivy and poison oak rashes are both because of the urushiol oil that the plants produce.
When the oil gets on your skin, it can cause a rash if you are sensitive to it.
In severe cases, you may need to see a healthcare provider.
Federica Grassi / Getty Images
Reproduced with permission from DermNetdermnetnz.org2023.
Sometimes, people may have a rash with black spots or black streaks.
This is known as black-spot poison-ivy dermatitis.
Reproduced with permission from © DermNetdermnetnz.org2023.
The rash does not spread on your skin.
This can make you think that the rash is spreading or getting worse.
In short, poison oak and poison ivy rash are allergic reactions to urushiol.
They are also considered a form ofallergic contact dermatitis.
Scientifically and medically, poison ivy and oak are known as rhus dermatitis.
Rhus refers to an older genus name for these plants.
Some people can have severe reactions to poison ivy or poison oak.
Prevention
Since there are few treatment options for poison oak or poison ivy, prevention is important.
The best way to prevent the rash is to know what the plants look like and avoid them.
The rash is because of urushiol oil, a chemical these plants release.
More than 85% of people are allergic to urushiol oil and will react if they are exposed.
after you grab the rash, it can last up to 10 days or longer.
Treatment is focused on controlling the itch through creams, cold compresses, and baths.
If the rash is severe, your healthcare provider may prescribe oral steroids.
Boston Children’s Hospital.Poison ivy, poison oak and poison sumac.
Johns Hopkins Medicine.Poison Ivy, oak, and sumac rash.
American Academy of Dermatology.Poison ivy, oak, and sumac: how to treat the rash.
Food & Drug Administration.Outsmarting poison ivy and other poisonous plants.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Poisonous plants and work.
