While it is important that you enjoy your time outdoors during the warm summer months, it is also very important that you are aware of your surroundings. Take extra caution around certain plants, some might be poison ivy, poison sumac or oak!
If you have recently come into contact with a poison ivy plant and are starting to develop an irritating and uncomfortable rash, here are a few things you can do to prevent the rash from spreading and treat the discomfort.
When you first come into contact with the plant, you should do the following:

1. Immediately rinse your skin with warm, soapy water
2. Wash your clothing and everything that may have come into contact with the plant
3. Do not scratch, this can lead to infection

Here are a few at-home treatments for the rash:

1. Consider using a calamine lotion or hydrocortisone cream
2. Apply cool compresses to the itchy skin
3. Consider taking antihistamine pills

If you are experiencing extreme discomfort and the rash has not gotten better after a few days, you can stop by AFC Urgent Care Bound Brook 7 days a week, no appointment necessary, for poison ivy treatments and other non-life threatening illnesses or injuries.
Our center is conveniently located at 601 W. Union Ave in Bound Brook, NJ. If you need to contact us with any questions, you can give us a call at 732-469-3627 or email our team at boundbrook@doctorsexpressbb.com!
Our experienced staff will have you feeling better in no time!