How to Treat Poison Ivy

Poison Ivy Rash
Poison ivy is a common cause of a skin irritation called contact dermatitis that may result in a red, itchy rash consisting of small bumps, blisters or swelling.
Most people have some level of sensitivity to poison ivy and similar toxic plants, such as poison oak and poison sumac. The irritating substance is the same for each plant, an oily resin called urushiol (u-ROO she-ol).
Rashes caused by poison ivy and its cousins generally aren't serious, but they certainly can be bothersome. Treatment for poison ivy mostly consists of self-care methods to relieve the itching until the reaction goes away.
Signs and symptoms of a poison ivy rash include:
Redness
Itching
Swelling
Blisters
Often, the rash has a linear appearance because of the way the plant brushes against your skin. But if you come into contact with a piece of clothing or pet fur that has urushiol on it, the rash may be more spread out.
The reaction usually develops 12 to 48 hours after exposure and can last up to three weeks. In severe cases, new areas of rash may break out several days or more after initial exposure. This may seem like the rash is spreading. But it's more likely due to the rate at which your skin absorbed the urushiol.
Your skin must come in direct contact with the oil from the plant in order to be affected. Spreading blister fluid from scratching doesn't spread the rash, but germs under your fingernails may cause a secondary infection
A poison ivy rash itself isn't contagious. Blister fluid doesn't contain urushiol and won't spread the rash. In addition, you can't get poison ivy from another person unless you've had contact with urushiol on that person.
See your doctor if any of the following occur:

The reaction is severe or widespread.
The rash affects sensitive areas of your body, such as your eyes, mouth or genitals.
Blisters are oozing pus.
You develop a fever greater than 100 F (37.8 C).
The rash doesn't get better within a few weeks.
Poison ivy rash typically goes away on its own within one to three weeks. In the meantime, you can use self-care methods and over-the-counter medications to relieve signs and symptoms. If the rash is widespread or results in a large number of blisters, your doctor may prescribe an oral corticosteroid, such as prednisone.
Once a rash has broken out, the following may help to soothe itching and swelling:

Over-the-counter high-potency corticosteroid creams, such as hydrocortisone, especially within the first few days
Calamine lotion
Creams containing menthol, such as Sarna
Oral antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl, others), which may also help you sleep better
Cool-water tub soaks with over-the-counter colloidal oatmeal (Aveeno)
Cool, wet compresses for 15 to 30 minutes several times a day
General Health Clinic encourages you to speak with your healthcare professional with questions or concerns regarding poison ivy. The Clinic welcomes most major insurances along with Medicare and Medicaid. Payments by cash, credit cards, and debit cards are accepted. The clinic is located at the junction of highways 148 and JJ in Hopkins, Missouri. The office will be closed on July 11th, but will be open Saturday, July 12th. Appointments can be made by calling 660-778-3209.
Source: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/poison-ivy/DS00774