Home
Spreading the Word
Typical Appearances
Briefing
Prevention
First Aid
Medical Care
Identification
Stems
Reproduction
Foliage
Risk ManagementBiochemistry
Appendices
Being Smart
An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure:
1. If you push exposure, each time a rash occurs your body will get more sensitive. And each time there is that small chance that something catastrophic will occur.
2. The longer you go without a rash, the less sensitive you become. After a few months or years you may be able to do more without getting a rash!
Seek help at the right time:
1. Get a medical evaluation if you swell within 24 hours; eyes swell shut; tongue swells; both hands swell; or you cant wear shoes. You may need steroids by mouth, like Prednisone.
2. Also get a medical evaluation if you suspect infection. You may need antibiotics.
Dont rely on latex gloves:
Urushiol goes right through it. Besides, latex itself can cause a nasty allergic reaction.
Do use sunscreens:
Modern sunscreens contain spreading agents (excipients) that are excellent for preventing poison-oak.