How to Deal with Poison Ivy Rash During Hiking
Poison ivy is a woody vine found in forests and woody areas that is very well known for being a skin irritant due to its ability to produce a skin rash, technically known as urushiol-induced contact dermatitis. It causes allergic reactions to most people. This causes severe itching which gradually develops into a reddish colored inflammation or even non-colored bumps and blisters. So next time you go hiking, you should be wary about these plants. But once rash occurs, the following tips are just the right things to do.
Prevention tips
The best way to deal with poison ivy rash is to prevent having one. And this can be avoided if you know what to evade. This is a ternate with three almond-shaped leaflets and berries with greenish-white color. The main problem is not the plant itself, but the inside part of the stem, leaves and berries, and roots. When these delicate parts of the poison ivy are damaged through contact with people or animals, it releases its urushiol oil which causes the rash. Before hitting the trail during a hike, be sure to be vigilant to watch for thick vegetation. Another tip is to wear clothes with minimum skin exposure such as long pants and long sleeves, as well as hiking boots and gloves. This may not be as comfortable especially during hot weather, but this is a sure way to prevent those irritating rashes. To be more comfortable, a convertible pair of shorts/pants will be a good option because you can convert it into a pair of shorts once you are in a clearing or above the tree line.
First aid treatment
Once rashes occur due to the inevitable contact with poison ivy, it is recommended that the affected area should be washed thoroughly to remove as much oil as possible. It is best to wash with soap and lots of water. Some point out that using isopropyl alcohol on the affected area before washing with soap and water will remove greater amount of oil. Just keep in mind that if you wash with alcohol, the natural defense of your skin will be removed. That’s why it is recommended to evacuate the area before applying alcohol because there is a greater chance of developing a second contact with poison ivy.
Other treatment options
After that first aid treatment that you have done at the site where your were “poisoned” by the poison ivy, it is imperative that once you reach the campsite, you should have a cool shower. Diving into the nearest river or lake is also advisable. But once you arrive at your hotel room, oatmeal baths and a baking-soda mixture can also help you soothe the discomfort. But once a severe allergic reaction occurs, nothing beats contacting your dermatologist.
Dealing with a poison ivy rash can be as irritating and disgusting as it may seem. But
nothing beats a well-prepared hiker who knows how to deal with this kind of hiking
hindrance.
Photo Credit : quinn.anya
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