should I open poison ivy blisters?

Answer 1

Caladryl is the best. It helps with the itching and also dries up the blisters.

Answer 2

Most people find that cool compresses in one form or another are quite soothing. Try using a towel or wash cloth soaked in either plain tap water or Burow's Solution (an astringent solution -- you can make it yourself using Domeboro tablets or powder packets available over-the-counter). This can help relieve the intense itching and remove dry crust that has formed as a result of the rash. A fan blowing over the cool compress will diminish some of the heat of the itching and help to dry up some of the ooze coming from the rash. As the skin is cooling, the blood vessels compress and that cuts down on the itching and the new ooze. This is especially good during the two or three worst days of the rash. Along the same lines, some dermatologists recommend rubbing an ice cube gently over the rash several times a day, then letting the skin air dry. Soaking in a tub, particularly using an oatmeal bath such as Aveeno, can also be very soothing to the itch. Be sure the bath is cool or lukewarm -- but not hot -- as heat tends to make the rash even more inflamed.

After the cooling (using any of the forms mentioned above) coat the rash with a shake lotion such as calamine. This continues to relieve the itching and helps to dry up the blisters. Be sure to check the expiration date on an old calamine bottle in your medicine cabinet, since it may not be effective after the expiration date. Be sure the shake lotion does not contain benzocaine, zirconium, or a topical antihistamine, such as benadryl. These can actually make the rash worse by producing their own allergic reactions when applied to already sensitive skin.

Smearing on hydrocortisone (as your boyfriend has done), or other topical corticosteroids, will help suppress the itching and give temporary relief, but does little to hasten the drying up of the rash. Similarly, taking an oral antihistamine, such as benadryl, can help with the itching quite a bit, although it does not speed up resolution of the rash. Taking benadryl at nighttime will make most people drowsy and help them sleep through the night without itching. Again, don't use benadryl cream or spray topically, because this can cause its own reaction.

The goal of reducing itching is brought about by cooling (by restricting the blood vessels), by drying the rash, or by quieting down the allergic response.

In severe cases of poison ivy, poison oak, or poison sumac it is a good idea to see a doctor. Sometimes large blisters need to be drained, and sometimes an oral steroid such as prednisone may be useful. Systemic steroids produce rapid resolution of both the itching and the rash. If they are needed, a gradually tapering dosage over about 12 days should be given. The dosage needs to be tapered to avoid side effects after discontinuing use, and the entire course should be taken since stopping earlier may result in a rebound rash as bad as the original.

Allergy shots are available to help prevent recurrences of the poison ivy, poison oak, or poison sumac rash. Unfortunately, the shots for this are frequently ineffective and should be reserved only for those who are extremely sensitive. Prescription pills containing small amounts of extract from the plants have been used for immunization. However, these pills can cause uncomfortable side effects. The pills are recommended only if given before contact with the plant and only for individuals who come into frequent contact with the plant. Using topical creams (such as Ivy Shield, IvyBlock, Hollister Moisture Barrier, Stokogard Outdoor Cream, or Hydrophil) can also help

Answer 3

NO and you can get some Calamine gel to put on it. Also only use a wash cloth and towel 1 time. And don't let anyone come in contact with them or your clothing until it is completely gone. Wash these items immediately. It is contagious.

Answer 4

no never open a blister and to stop the itch and dry it up use spray starch that you use when ironing clothes i got that from helloise the lady with all the house hold tips

Answer 5

no get some Ivy Dri

Answer 6

NO! you will spread the poisin ivy further. Keep your blisters clean and covered it possible and let them heal.

Answer 7

NO...GO TO YOUR CLOSEST WAL-MART , THAN GO TO THE DRY SKIN SECTION AND LOOK FOR A CREAM CALLED "ZINC OXIDE UPS" IT SHALL HELP YOUR BLISTERS GREATLY AND YOUR REDNESS..TRUST ME....IF YOUR NOT SURE JUST GO TO THE STORE AND READ THE LABEL.....

Answer 8

No , also take showers not baths the contaminate can spread and make the condition worse

Answer 9

Its not a very good idea cause it would spread it further

Answer 10

no my grand mother would tell me to put rubbing acholic on it and it work