As the days get warmer and the grass grows taller, many of us are outside mowing lawns, clearing brush, and spending more time outdoors. But along with the sunshine comes a common seasonal issue—rashes caused by poison ivy, poison oak, poison sumac, and other irritating plants.
At Stopwatch Urgent Care, we’re seeing more patients with itchy, painful rashes from outdoor exposure, and we want to help you stay safe (and rash-free!) this season.
Know the Plants
🌿 Poison Ivy – Found across much of the U.S., this vine or shrub has shiny leaves in groups of three.
🌿 Poison Oak – Usually grows as a bush with rounded, oak-like leaves, also in clusters of three.
🌿 Poison Sumac – Typically found in wet, marshy areas with long rows of leaflets on red stems.
Each of these plants contains urushiol oil, which triggers an allergic reaction in most people.
Symptoms to Look For
If you’ve been exposed, you might notice symptoms within 12–48 hours, such as:
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Red, itchy patches
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Swelling or tenderness
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Fluid-filled blisters
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Rash that appears in streaks or patches
The rash itself isn’t contagious, but urushiol oil can stick to clothes, shoes, tools—even your pets.
Prevention Tips
✔️ Wear long sleeves, pants, and gloves while doing yardwork
✔️ Avoid unfamiliar plants and overgrown areas
✔️ Wash your skin and clothes immediately after outdoor activity
✔️ Keep pets away from brush and woods
When to Visit Stopwatch Urgent Care
While mild rashes may clear up with over-the-counter remedies, more serious cases may need prescription treatment. If your rash is spreading, becomes infected, or affects your eyes or face, don’t wait—Stopwatch Urgent Care is here for you.
We’re open 7 days a week with walk-in convenience, fast service, and friendly care for the whole family.
👉 Check in online
👉 Find a location near you
Skip the itch and get back to feeling better—fast. Stopwatch Urgent Care has you covered this spring and beyond. ❤️
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