Health Talk: Poison ivy primer

Rutland Herald
By WILL GORMLY
July 16, 2008

As summer progresses, it is once again time to become mindful of poison ivy.

This summertime weed is the nuisance of hikers, gardeners and outdoorsmen everywhere.

Knowledge of this plant is becoming more important, however, as its occurrence has been slowly increasing because of growing levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.

Lewis Ziska, an ecologist for the U.S. Department of Agriculture, has been running tests on how carbon dioxide levels affect the growth rate of poison ivy, and has found a strong positive correlation.

One sample was tested using 300 parts per million of carbon dioxide, which represents the levels from 1950 and another sample using 400 parts per million which represents our current conditions.

The sample exposed to the 400 parts per million of carbon dioxide were, on average, twice as large as those grown under conditions from 57 years ago. These studies have also shown that poison ivy is growing faster and urushiol, the compound within the plant that causes irritation, is becoming more concentrated.

Roughly 80 percent of the population will have an allergic reaction when they come in contact with poison ivy.

The symptoms begin with itching and reddish inflammation and then progress into blistering. In severe cases, a clear liquid may also secrete from the blisters. In instances where poison ivy is burned and the smoke is inhaled, a rash can develop on the lungs, which causes harsh pain and, in some cases, can be fatal. If digested, poison ivy can also cause damage to the internal organs.

The plant itself consists of three light green almond shaped leaflets and may have small white berries. There may also be black spots on the plants where the urushiol has been exposed to air.

A common expression for remembering the appearance of poison ivy is, "Leaves of three, let it be. Berries white, danger in sight."

Another general misconception about poison ivy is that it has thorns, but, in reality, its stem is smooth. To avoid exposure, long pants, long socks and shoes should be worn when walking in the woods.

Gardeners and landscapers should also wear long sleeves and gloves when working in areas that have poison ivy.

If one should still come into contact with poison ivy, the first action should be to thoroughly wash the affected areas with soap and water to remove the lingering oil. Any clothing that may have the oil on it should also be washed before the oil can transfer.

The itching, irritation and blisters can be treated with diligent application of hydrocortisone or antihistamine creams. If problems persist, it is recommended that a doctor be consulted. Overall, staying mindful of poison ivy will help keep your summer "up to scratch."

This week's Health Talk article was submitted by Will Gormly, marketing intern and nature hike enthusiast, at Rutland Regional Medical Center.

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