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Poison Sumac Symptoms

Poison ivy, oak, and sumac produce nearly identical symptoms that can make it difficult for a person without medical knowledge to distinguish between them. The rash that results from contact with these plants is caused an allergic reaction to the oil within them.

  1. Common Symptoms

    • Itching, redness or red streak marks will present where the plant and skin touched. Small bumps, blisters, and hives are typical.

    Blisters

    • Fluid-filled blisters may or may not leak, and rarely the blisters will fill with blood. Blister leakage will not spread the rash to parts of the body that did not initially come into contact with the plant.

    Timeframe

    • Most commonly, symptoms will appear between 12 and 48 hours after the skin and plan have come into contact. However, the time frame can vary somewhat.

    Serious Symptoms

    • Severe allergic reactions that require medical attention include rash or swelling around the eyes, face or genitalia, discharge of pus indicating infection or an area of the rash causing significant discomfort.

    Conditions with Similar Symptoms

    • Scabies, shingles, and impetigo can cause rashes that mimic a poison sumac rash. Insect stings and allergic reaction to chemicals in household products can also cause a similar reaction of the skin.

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