Everyone knows about the dangers of poison ivy exposure, at least from a general standpoint. We know that it causes itchiness and rashes alike, and that we must be aware of this plant when walking outdoors. However, this isn't everything that you should know about poison ivy. As a matter of fact, here are some of the most typical questions that are asked about it, as well as guidance from the likes of Alternative Earthcare.
"Why do we develop rashes in the first place?" We all know what the main symptom of poison ivy is, but what we may not know is how it develops. For the uninitiated, this plant - not to mention a few others - has what's called urushiol oil. This substance is found on the stems and leaves of poison oak, and to say that the human skin is sensitive to it would be an understatement. To prevent rashes from spreading, soap and water must be used as soon as possible.
"How long does this rash exist?" The aforementioned rash - in addition to other poison ivy symptoms such as blisters and bumpiness on the skin - does not last terribly long in most cases. As a matter of fact, it's not uncommon for these symptoms to disappear in a week or two. However, more extreme cases have been known to crop up, as companies like Alternative Earthcare will tell you. This is where east end tick control specialists will tell you to seek medical attention.
"Is it true that you become more immune to poison ivy with repeated exposure?" The simple answer to this would be, "No." There's no clear evidence that repeated exposure builds your immune system in this sense. If anything, this can actually make the aforementioned symptoms more aggressive, which can increase the likelihood of medical problems down the road. The best advice that can be given, as far as poison ivy exposure is concerned, is to be aware of your surroundings and protect yourself.
With these questions and answers in mind, your understanding of poison ivy should be sharper. Even though rashes are commonplace, they are far from the only things to worry about when exposed to it. However, it's not like you have to come into contact with poison oak, especially if you hire a company that specializes in tick control. Seeing as how it can potentially remove poison ivy from your lawn, you should feel more confident about your overall wellness.
"Why do we develop rashes in the first place?" We all know what the main symptom of poison ivy is, but what we may not know is how it develops. For the uninitiated, this plant - not to mention a few others - has what's called urushiol oil. This substance is found on the stems and leaves of poison oak, and to say that the human skin is sensitive to it would be an understatement. To prevent rashes from spreading, soap and water must be used as soon as possible.
"How long does this rash exist?" The aforementioned rash - in addition to other poison ivy symptoms such as blisters and bumpiness on the skin - does not last terribly long in most cases. As a matter of fact, it's not uncommon for these symptoms to disappear in a week or two. However, more extreme cases have been known to crop up, as companies like Alternative Earthcare will tell you. This is where east end tick control specialists will tell you to seek medical attention.
"Is it true that you become more immune to poison ivy with repeated exposure?" The simple answer to this would be, "No." There's no clear evidence that repeated exposure builds your immune system in this sense. If anything, this can actually make the aforementioned symptoms more aggressive, which can increase the likelihood of medical problems down the road. The best advice that can be given, as far as poison ivy exposure is concerned, is to be aware of your surroundings and protect yourself.
With these questions and answers in mind, your understanding of poison ivy should be sharper. Even though rashes are commonplace, they are far from the only things to worry about when exposed to it. However, it's not like you have to come into contact with poison oak, especially if you hire a company that specializes in tick control. Seeing as how it can potentially remove poison ivy from your lawn, you should feel more confident about your overall wellness.
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If you'd care for additional details about tick control, consult Alternative Earthcare today.