How to Spot Poison Ivy, Oak and Sumac

Camping season is in full swing. If you're anything like me, telling the difference between harmless greenery and rash-inducing plants can be tricky. Is poison ivy the one with three leaves? It can be hard to remember.

According to the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), all three plants produce a sticky, invisible oil called urushiol. Just a small amount can cause a red, itchy, blistering rash. Urushiol can cling to your skin, clothing, pet fur and even camping gear.

If you come in contact with one of these plants, the rash typically shows up within 12 to 72 hours and can linger for up to three weeks. That's why it's important to spot the plants, prevent exposure and treat the rash right away if it happens.

Poison Ivy

Commonly found along Minnesota trails and in wooded areas.

• "Leaves of three, let it be." Poison ivy is usually identified by the three-pointed leaves per stem. If you notice there are three, please let it be.
• Leaf edges can be smooth or slightly toothed.
• Leaves are green in summer but may turn red or slightly orange in the fall.
• It can grow as a vine or a low shrub.
• You might notice small white berries in the late summer or fall.

Poison Sumac

Commonly found in Minnesota's wet or swampy areas.

• Seven to 13 leaflets per stem, always in pairs, with one at the tip.
• Grows as a tall shrub or small tree.
• Leaves are smoothed-edged, elongated and often glossy.
• Produces white or gray berries that hang in loose clusters.

Poison Oak

Less common in Minnesota, but still a plant to be aware of if you're traveling in the southeastern United States.

• Follows the "leaves of three" rule, but unlike poison ivy, the leaflets are more lobed and rounder, like oak leaves.
• Grows as a shrub or vine.
• Leaves may have a fuzzy texture.

Common Symptoms

• Red rash
• Swelling
• Itching
• Possible bumps, patches, streaking or weeping blisters (fluid from blisters is not contagious)

How to Treat

• Wash your skin with soap and cool water as soon as possible. It's recommended you do this within 30 minutes upon contact.
• Special cleansers like Tecnu, Zanfel or IvyX are recommended.
• Wash under your fingernails and remove your contaminated clothing or gear immediately.
• Use over-the-counter ant-itch creams to help with symptoms (hydrocortisone cream, calamine lotion)
• Colloidal oatmeal baths can help.
• Applying cool, wet compresses 10-15 minutes at a time can help soothe the skin.
• You can take an oral antihistamine like Benadryl (diphenhydramine) before bed for severe itching. During the daytime, you could try non-drowsy options like Claritin or Zyrtec.

What to Avoid

• Don't itch the area because that can lead to infection.
• Don't pop blisters because they protect the skin and will heal on their own.
• Avoid hot water, that can make the itching worse.
• Don't burn poison ivy, oak or sumac because the urushiol can cause severe irritation to your lungs.

When to Seek Medical Attention

• The rash is widespread or on your face, genitals or eyes.
• There is significant swelling.
• Blisters become infected (red, warm, pus-filled).
• Symptoms aren't improving after 7-10 days.
• You have a fever or feel ill.

If you have any of the symptoms mentioned above, it's important to seek immediate medical attention. Your provider may prescribe you stronger topical or oral steroids. In some severe cases of infection, antibiotics are needed. Learn more about protecting yourself from poisonous plants on the CDC's website.