What is Poison Oak? Poison Oak can be a bush, vine, root, plant or tree. The name “poison oak” is often applied to the shrub-like forms of poison ivy, and to at least two similar plants that are usually considered separate species of the cashew family, Anacardiaceae.
The poison oak of the southeastern United States, Rhus quercifolia, has its leaves divided into three leaflets; the leaflets are densely haired and generally have three to seven distinct lobes. The white, berry-like fruits are also somewhat hairy. The poison oak of the U.S. Pacific coast, R. diversiloba, is a shrubby or sometimes climbing plant that grows to 2.4 m (8 ft) high; its three-leaflet leaves are toothed or lobed and are hairless. Both species contain poisonous substances that are believed to be identical or closely related to that found in poison ivy. Poison Oak is usually not found above 4000 feet elevation (1219 m).
What Causes The Rash? The Poison Oak rash is cause by a chemical called urushiol. This is present in poison oak leaves, branches, roots, everything. When you touch it, the oil is absorbed into the skin. This is a poisonous substance, and the rash is the result of your body’s immune system fighting against this invader. You can get Poison Oak by touching the plant, its leaves, roots, or whatever. If an animal, such as your dog, gets in Poison Oak you can get it from petting the dog (no, the dog won’t get the rash though : ) You can get it from your clothing that touches Poison Oak.
Can Poison Oak Be Spread By Scratching? The rash doesn’t appear until after the oil is absorbed into your skin, because it is caused by your body’s immune system. So the answer is no, once you get the rash, you can’t spread it around by scratching. The oil that seeps from your wounded body isn’t urushiol, its secreted by your body. The reason most people think it will spread is because of secondary infection. You touch a poison oak plant, the oil is on your hands. You rub your face, it gets there. The oil is spread. Now after a while, there isn’t as much oil to spread around, so some parts get hit more heavily. What this means is, the rash appears soon is some spots, and takes a couple of days in other spots. This gives the illusion that you’ve spread the rash by scratching or whatever.
Just make sure you aren’t getting brand-new infection from your clothing. Whenever you go hiking, put everything you had with you – clothes, shoes, everything in a bag etc., and wash it all. To avoid poison oak on hiking trips you must take serious precaution.
If You’ve Been Exposed: Take a shower immediately, no matter how long it has been. First make sure all the clothes you wore, including shoes, are in a separate bag, and wash them before touching them again. Do not use hot water as this can make it worse. Some suggest in lieu of soap, wash down in cool water and then follow it up with rubbing alcohol. Consult your pharmacy or health care professional for assistance.
Which is worse, Poison Oak or Poison Ivy? The verdict is still out, but most people claim Poison Oak is a bit worse!
Are Some People Immune? Though there are those who appear to be immune to Poison Oak. However, repeated exposure can hit just about anyone. There are also those who believe continued exposure builds up the immunity. This is incorrect according to various sources.
Remedies: Unfortunately, Poison oak has to run its course. OTCs such as Calamine (Caladryl) may provide some soothing assistance, but ultimately the outbreak will have to fizzle on its own. For extreme cases, Prednisone has been recommended. If the outbreak is very bad, see your doctor right away. Prednisone, a type of steroid, is very effective but may increase the likelihood of infection with prolonged use. Atarax or hydroxyzine (generics) are helpful in reducing the itching, however these drugs may cause drowsiness. Make sure to find the proper health care from a professional who understands the treatment of Poison oak.
Once Infected With an Outbreak, Does Hot Water Help? There are reports that controlled use of hot water on an outbreak can reduce the itching, as it allegedly reduces histimines in your body. Don’t confuse this to being newly exposed to Poison oak. In that case you should shower in cold water to reduce the outbreak. As with all health problems, consult your doctor for details.