Poison Ivy Contact Dermatitis: Understanding the Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Posted on: June 27th, 2025 by Our Team

Summer is in full swing in Fuquay Varina and beautiful central North Carolina. That means that many of us are active in the garden, on hiking trails, or golf courses where poison ivy readily grows. Poison ivy contact dermatitis is a skin reaction that occurs after coming into contact with poison ivy, poison oak, or poison sumac. These plants contain a toxic oil called urushiol that can cause an itchy and painful rash when it comes into contact with skin.

The best way to avoid poison ivy contact dermatitis is to contact with the plant. Poison ivy leaves always appear in bunches of three smaller leaflets that grow alternately from the main stem. The stem of poison ivy also has numerous small “hairs” that the plant uses to climb. Many other vines do not have these “hairs.”

What causes poison ivy contact dermatitis?

The cause of poison ivy contact dermatitis is exposure to urushiol, which is found in the leaves, stems, and roots of poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac plants. When urushiol comes into contact with skin, it can cause an allergic reaction, resulting in the development of a rash. Keep in mind that you may come directly in contact with the plant, have parts of the plant on clothes, gloves or gardening mats, or inadvertently touch a pet with parts of the poison ivy plant embedded in its fur coat.

What are the symptoms of poison ivy contact dermatitis?

The symptoms of poison ivy contact dermatitis include:

• Itching: The affected area may itch intensely, leading to scratching and further skin irritation.
• Rash: A rash may develop within hours or days of exposure, and may become red, swollen, and blistery.
• Pain: The affected area may also be painful.
• Swelling: Swelling may occur in the affected area, particularly around the eyes and face.

How is poison ivy contact dermatitis treated?

While there is no cure, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Thomas Knackstedt emphasizes relieving symptoms and preventing the spread of the rash. Some of the most common treatments include:

• Over-the-counter creams and lotions: Over-the-counter creams and lotions, such as hydrocortisone and calamine lotion, can help relieve itching and soothe the skin.
• Anti-itch drugs: Anti-itch drugs, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl) and hydroxizine, can help relieve itching and improve sleep.
• Cold compresses: Cold compresses can help relieve itching and swelling.
• Prescription medications: Prescription medications, such as topical corticosteroids and oral steroids, may be recommended in severe cases.

Remember, “Leaves of Three, Leave Them Be”!