Both poison ivy and poison oak have a toxic oil that can cause an itchy rash for up to two weeks. This oil is called urushiol, and most people are allergic to it. There aren’t many differences between poison ivy and poison oak, but recognizing the plants can help save you an unpleasant few weeks this summer.

AFC Urgent Care Bedford provides treatment for poison ivy. Depending on how much of your body the rash is covering, you may want to receive a prescription ointment to help with the itching. Visit our walk-in clinic today for any urgent care service, no appointment needed.

 

The shape of the Leaves

The leaves on each are slightly different, making it easier to differentiate between the two plants. With poison ivy, the leaves are always green and shiny and grow in clusters of three. Poison ivy leaves are also longer and almond-shaped and can sometimes have scalloped sides.

With poison oak they are also green but have a red tint to them. They also grow in clusters of three like poison ivy. Their leaves range in size, getting as big as the size of your hand, and they’re wider than poison ivy leaves.

 

How Do They Grow?

On the East Coast, poison ivy can grow as a vine or as a plant on the ground. This means you should be careful when out hiking in the summer and be on the lookout for poison ivy.

Poison oak often grows as a small shrub but can grow to be three feet tall vines in the South.

 

They can Grow Berries

Poison oak can be fuzzy on both sides or smooth and shiny. Green-yellow berries may also grow on poison oak in the fall when the plant begins to mature. With poison ivy, the underside of the leaf is normally fuzzy or feels like velvet. They can also produce berries that are whitish green and resemble pumpkins.

 

Is there a Difference in the rash?

It isn’t too big of a difference between the rashes. In most poison ivy cases, one will appear within 48 hours after touching the plant. Blisters may form, and they can resemble streaks where the plant touched your skin.

Poison oak rashes may take weeks to appear. Similar to poison ivy, the rash will be red, itchy, and swollen. If a fever appears with a poison oak rash, it’s best to seek medical attention.