Hi! I Think I Have Some Poison Ivy After Working

Posted on Fri, 9 Aug 2019

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Fri, 9 Aug 2019 Answered on

Last reviewed on

Question : Hi! I think I have some poison ivy after working in the garden to remove weeds last weekend. It is in many locations on my arms and legs. Just little spots and nothing too itchy. I have bought some Cortisone Ointment from CVS and I apply it often. How long will the condition last? Do I need to do anything else until it resolves?

Answered by Dr. Dr. Michelle Gibson (33 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
can last 1 to 3 weeks

Detailed Answer:
HI, thanks for using healthcare magic

The time period for the rash and itching that can occur with poison ivy can vary from 1 to 3 weeks.

The use of the cortisone cream is appropriate. If the itching sensation increases then you can also use an oral antihistamine along with calamine lotion.
Since it is an inflammatory reaction, even if there is minimal itching the use of the oral antihistamine for a few days (2 to 5) may help the symptoms to resolve faster.
Eg zyrtec, claritine, allegra, benadryl

i hope this helps, feel free to ask any other questions

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Michelle Gibson (1 hour later)

Thanks! I will buy the additional products that you mentioned to help relieve the itching. I am pleased with the details of your explanation and knowing the time line of recovery.

Answered by Dr. Dr. Michelle Gibson (6 hours later)

Brief Answer:
really hope that you feel better soon

Detailed Answer:
Wishing you the very best

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar