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Poison Oak Rash Symptoms

With three leaflets on each stem, poison oak grows as low-lying ground cover and bushes or it may vine upward on trees or fences. Like other poisonous plants that cause contact dermatitis, poison oak contains urushiol, a toxic oily resin that irritates human skin. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, you may not experience symptoms the first time you touch the plant. With repeated exposure, however, the risk of developing a rash increases. Approximately 85 percent of people develop some type of rash after direct contact with urushiol.

  1. Time factor

    • Symptoms of a poison oak rash commonly show up within two days after contact with the plant. However, health guru, Dr. Andrew Weil, reports some individuals may develop a rash within 30 minutes of exposure. Since urushiol oil may remain potent for days on pet fur, garden tools or clothing, it can be difficult to pinpoint the exact time of exposure.

    First signs

    • Itching, often intense, is the first indication of poison oak rash. Redness develops soon after, especially if you scratch the area. The severity of the symptoms depends upon your sensitivity to the urushiol toxin.

    Blisters

    • Bumps and blisters can form soon after the itching starts. The blisters may swell quickly and ooze a clear liquid. Although the liquid does not contain urushiol, scratching can cause the rash to spread.

    Sensitivity

    • Poison oak rash may be more severe in individuals with fair complexions. Children also may be more susceptible to developing symptoms than the elderly. Some areas of the body are more sensitive than others; exposure to urushiol on the genitals or face may result in a severe rash.

    Infection

    • When a poison oak rash spreads rapidly beyond the area of exposure, it can signal a secondary infection. Contact your doctor immediately if you had a previous allergic reaction to poison oak and a new rash is developing or if a rash spreads rapidly or covers more than one-third of your body. Swelling of the face or throat indicates a possible emergency.

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