Skin Problems & Treatments Health Center

Understanding Poison Ivy, Oak, & Sumac -- Symptoms

What Are the Symptoms of Poison Ivy, Oak & Sumac?

The symptoms of poison ivy, oak, and sumac are:

• Patches of red, itchy skin, usually followed by small blisters, which fill with a clear fluid and eventually break open.
• Severe cases can develop into swollen, extremely itchy areas.

Call Your Doctor About a Rash If:

• Your rash stays red and itchy for more than a week; you may have another type of contact dermatitis or eczema.
• You have the rash near your eyes or the rash covers a large part of your body. You may need medical intervention.
• You have severe complications, such as generalized swelling, headache, fever, or a secondary infection.
• You have been exposed to the smoke from burning poison ivy, poison oak, or poison sumac. The toxin is not destroyed by fire and can cause severe allergic reactions.