As temperatures rise and lawns get greener, many of us are outside mowing, gardening, and enjoying the fresh air. But spring also brings an itchy downside—poison ivy, poison oak, poison sumac, and other rash-causing plants are more active than ever. At Lowcountry Urgent Care, we’re seeing a seasonal spike in patients with painful, itchy skin reactions—and we’re here to help.
Know What to Watch Out For
🌿 Poison Ivy – The most common offender. Look for clusters of three green leaves—“Leaves of three, let it be.”
🌿 Poison Oak – Usually grows as a shrub with rounded leaflets, also in groups of three.
🌿 Poison Sumac – Grows in wetter, swampy areas with long clusters of leaflets.
All of these plants contain urushiol, an oil that causes an allergic skin reaction in most people who touch it.
Symptoms of Exposure
If you’ve been in contact with any of these plants, you may experience symptoms within 12–48 hours, including:
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Red, itchy rash
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Swelling or tenderness
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Blisters that may ooze or crust over
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Streaky or patchy areas of irritation
While the rash itself isn’t contagious, the oil can linger on clothing, tools, and even pet fur—so be sure to wash everything thoroughly after outdoor work.
Protect Yourself This Season
✔️ Wear gloves, long sleeves, and pants when working in the yard
✔️ Avoid touching unknown plants
✔️ Wash skin and clothes immediately after possible exposure
✔️ Keep pets away from brush and wooded areas
When to Visit Lowcountry Urgent Care
For many people, poison ivy and similar rashes clear up on their own within 1–2 weeks. But if the rash is spreading, especially to your face, or if you’re experiencing swelling, pain, or signs of infection—come see us. We offer quick, effective relief with prescription-strength treatments when over-the-counter creams just aren’t enough.
We’re open 7 days a week and treat patients of all ages—no appointment needed.
👉 Find a location near you
👉 Check in online
Lowcountry Urgent Care is here to help you feel better fast—so you can enjoy spring without the itch! ❤️
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