The skin then becomes extremely itchy and blisters start to form. These blisters usually remain for a few days, but the overall healing process could take 10 days or longer. Try to do this within five minutes of exposure to prevent urushiol from penetrating the skin and spreading to other areas. Wash all clothing outdoors with a hose or in a washing machine with laundry detergent. For mild itching, use calamine lotion or soak in a bathtub of cool water with a baking soda or oatmeal solution.
Calamine helps relieve itching and irritation.
For more severe itching or other symptoms, consult a doctor. Knowing how each plant looks and where they typically grow can also prevent unwanted allergic reactions. Poison ivy grows as a vine and has glossy green leaves that appear in groups of three. Recognizing the berries can help identify poison ivy in late fall, winter and early spring when there are no leaves. Poison ivy is most commonly found in the Midwest and eastern and southern United States.