Hur identifierar jag poison ivy
Poison ivy grows throughout North America, especially in wooded areas, and touching it can give most people an itchy rash. Therefore, identifying and avoiding the plant is crucial if you don't want to be scratching your skin all summer long. North America is home to several subspecies of poison ivy, but the two main types are eastern and western poison ivy. Eastern poison ivy grows as a vine, and western poison ivy grows more like a shrub, but they share these characteristics:.
As seasons change, so can poison ivy. In the fall, the leaves may be red or yellow.
How To Identify Poison Ivy Once and for All
In the winter, the plant loses its leaves. A rash can develop within hours or days after exposure to urushiol, and it may last for a few weeks. People's reactions vary depending on genetics, skin sensitivity, and number of prior exposures, Hogan says. Reactions may include:. The rash can begin as raised, red, and swollen, and then sometimes progress into painful blisters.
If the rash is severe, it may end up covering large parts of your body, Hogan says. With poison ivy, prevention is the best medicine. Some harmless plants look similar, but if you see leaves of three, it's best to let it be. However, if you do break out in a rash, a cold compress can provide immediate relief, and over-the-counter creams may help. But if the rash covers more than a small area and doesn't go away after a few days, you should see a board-certified dermatologist or primary care doctor, Hogan says, as you may need prescription steroids.
Therefore, it's important to be aware of your symptoms and whether they're improving or worsening.
How to Identify Poison Ivy (in All Seasons)
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What does poison ivy look like? How to identify the plant and treat the rash
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