For more serious or widespread cases, a doctor can prescribe steroids which apparently suppress the immune response to contaminated cells. Learn to recognize and avoid the plant. A product called Tecnu is supposed to break down the active ingredient in the oil. It's supposedly recommended by power company linemen. There are supposed to be naturopathic regimens to develop immunity to poison oak.
Some people are naturally immune.
Inhaling the smoke can produce a systemic reaction, including potentially serious lung inflammation. References Medicine for Mountaineering. Work Outdoors at GORP Jobs Click Here. All rights reserved. Privacy policy .