During the warmer spring and summer months, it is important to spend time outside while the weather is nice. Hiking, biking, running, going for a walk, playing in a park, and even just doing yard work are great ways to spend time outside. However, all of these activities increase your risk of coming into contact with poison ivy. Poison ivy is a plant that grows in many areas of the U.S. It secretes oils which can cause a painful rash for anyone who is allergic to the plant. Learn more about how to identify poison ivy and what to do if you come into contact with poison ivy to get rid of the rash quickly.
If you are experiencing a sudden onset rash, you may have been exposed to poison ivy. Poison ivy rashes can be extremely painful and irritating. At AFC Urgent Care Linden, our clinic offers same-day urgent care for a variety of common conditions, including poison ivy rash diagnosis and treatment. We offer care on a walk-in basis 7 days a week, walk-in today!
How to Identify Poison Ivy
Poison ivy is a plant that is very common across the United States. It can be found in many different areas, including in wooded areas, along roads, near water sources including the ocean, and in urban areas. It is important to understand what poison ivy looks like so that you can avoid contact.
It can be tricky to identify poison ivy before it’s too late. Poison ivy is green and commonly grows close to the ground although it can also grow on a vine. It can easily blend in with a variety of non-harmful plants. Poison ivy can be easily identified because it uniquely grows with 3 leaves per plant. Poison ivy secretes an oil that causes an allergic reaction, so it is important not to touch the leaves of a poison ivy plant.
Signs You Came In Contact With Poison Ivy & How to Treat It
Poison ivy rashes typically appear within 72 hours of contact with a poison ivy plant. Rashes from accidental exposure typically occur around the ankles or on the hands, but you will get a rash from poison ivy anywhere that the plant touches. This is because the plant leaves an oil on your skin after contact.
Poison ivy rashes typically begin with redness in the affected area. They then begin to progress into a raised rash and eventually begin to blister. Popping the blisters will result in the rash spreading, so it is very important not to touch the rash, despite the itchiness. Poison ivy rashes can spread from person to person if you expose others to the oils that cause poison ivy rashes. If you know that you came into contact with poison ivy, you may be able to use a medicated poison ivy treatment to remove the oils before you have a reaction. If you do have a poison ivy rash, the best course of treatment is not touching it and using over-the-counter anti-itch creams to reduce discomfort. The rash will resolve on its own over time.
Walk-Into AFC Urgent Care Linden for Rapid Poison Ivy Rash Treatment in Linden, NJ
Poison ivy exposure is a very common condition. However, don’t let poison ivy ruin your outdoor time. Knowing how to identify poison ivy and covering your skin when in densely vegetated areas can help reduce the possibility of being exposed to poison ivy. If you have come in contact with poison ivy, AFC Urgent Care Linden can help. Our medical staff is board-certified and able to provide a rapid diagnosis and effective treatment plan for poison ivy rashes.
Our clinic accepts walk-in patients 7 days a week and is conveniently located near Woodbridge, Rahway, Linden, Roselle & Elizabeth, NJ. Simply walk into the clinic for rapid care with short wait times. We accept most medical insurance plans and accept self-paying patients.
