How To Treat Poison Ivy

Expand the description and view the text of the steps for this how-to video. Check out Howcast for other do-it-yourself videos from Seaworthy and more videos in the First Aid category. You can contribute too! Create your own DIY guide at www.howcast.com or produce your own Howcast spots with the Howcast Filmmakers Program at www.howcast.com Uh... did you just sit in a patch of poison ivy? Yeah you did! Now what? To complete this How-To you will need: Rubbing alcohol Cool water Soap Hydrocortisone cream Calamine lotion Cotton balls Menthol cream Cool compresses Jewelweed sap Warning: Seek medical attention immediately if you experience a severe allergic reaction to poison ivy, such as a swelling of the mouth or nose, difficulty breathing or swallowing, or a high fever. Step 1: Clean the area with rubbing alcohol and cold water If you've been exposed to poison ivy and you act quickly, you may be able to avoid an outbreak. Pour rubbing alcohol on the area that came in contact with the plant, then rinse with cold running water. Tip: Do not rinse with warm or hot water, which can cause the plant's oils to be absorbed more quickly. Also, to avoid spreading the oils, don't take a bath, and avoid showering without first rinsing. Step 2: Wash with soap and water Use soap and water to thoroughly wash the area. This might help prevent the outbreak. Scrub under your fingernails, and immediately remove and wash your clothes (and anything else that might have the plant's oils on it) in ...