Schedule An Appointment

Symptom Checker

Poison Ivy, Oak and Sumac

Poison ivy, poison oak and poison sumac can cause an itchy, red or blistering skin rash. The rash is an allergic reaction rather than an infection.

Urushiol, an oil found in these plants, causes the reaction. The oil can remain on skin, clothing, pets and objects until it is washed away. Blister fluid itself does not spread the rash.

Call a nurse All symptoms

AAP Guide to Poison Ivy, Oak and Sumac

The AAP guide below explains washing, itch relief and when a reaction needs medical care.

AAP Symptom CheckerPoison ivy

If the Symptom Checker does not appear here

It is the American Academy of Pediatrics’ own tool and it loads from their site, so a lost connection or a content blocker leaves this space empty. Open it on HealthyChildren.org with the button below, or call your office and a nurse will answer.

Open on HealthyChildren.org

Symptom CheckerPoison ivy New tab

When to see a doctor

Contact your pediatrician or another healthcare professional if:

  • The rash covers a large area or involves the face or genitals.
  • Swelling is severe or the eyes are swelling shut.
  • The skin becomes increasingly painful, warm, crusted or infected-looking.
  • The rash is not improving or is causing severe discomfort.

Call 911 or get emergency care if:

  • Your child has trouble breathing.
  • Your child develops severe swelling of the mouth, tongue or throat.
  • You think your child is having a life-threatening allergic reaction.

Talk to a nurse now, at any hour

When can my child be seen

Be seen today.

Every office keeps same-day appointments for illness and injury.

This evening or at the weekend.

Most offices run After Hours Care, by appointment rather than walk-in.

If you are worried, call. We would rather answer a question that turns out to be nothing.

More on skin and rashes

See the rest of this group and all 164 symptoms