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 Poison ivy rash is caused by an allergic reaction to an oily resin called urushiol, which is found in the leaves, stems and roots of poison ivy, poison oak and poison sumac. At least 50 percent of the people who come into contact with these plants develop an itchy rash. The most dangerous type of exposure occurs when the plant is burned and the smoke is inhaled, which can affect your lungs.
Signs and symptoms of a poison ivy rash include:
· Redness
· Itching
· Swelling
· Blisters filled with fluid that may leak out
The rash is very itchy and can appear on any part of the body. The rash can continue to appear on new parts of the body when:
· Other parts of the body touch the oil.
· You spread the oil on your skin by touching other parts of your body.
Traditional treatment of poison ivy involves calamine lotion or other topical medicine to relieve itch. Some doctors will suggest benadryl or other antihistamine; in severe cases, steroids may be prescribed to calm the allergic reaction.
Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) includes Chinese herbal medicine and acupuncture. TCM has been used to treat allergies for thousands of years. In Chinese medicine, poison ivy rash is considered damp heat in the skin. Acupuncture and Chinese herbs are very effective in treating both the allergic response and the itching. Acupuncture treatment focuses on determining which channels are affected, and choosing points that drain heat from those areas. Herbal medicine can bring down the allergic response, clear heat from the skin, dry up weeping sores, and relieve itching. Traditional Chinese medicine has been proven safe and effective without adverse side effects. If you would like to pursue this form of treatment or information, please contact Xiaoyan.
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