That telltale itch... those angry red bumps... you know exactly what it is: poison ivy. But the big question is: how long are you going to be suffering? Unfortunately, there's no one-size-fits-all answer.
The poison ivy rash itself isn't contagious; it's the urushiol oil that causes the reaction. This oil binds to the skin quickly, so washing thoroughly within an hour or two of exposure can significantly reduce the severity and duration.
Typically, a poison ivy rash will last anywhere from **1 to 3 weeks**. Mild cases might clear up in a week, while severe reactions can linger for almost a month. Factors like the amount of urushiol exposure, individual sensitivity, and whether you've had poison ivy before all play a role.
While you wait it out, focus on soothing the itch with calamine lotion, oatmeal baths, or antihistamines. If the rash is severe, covers a large area, or is near your eyes or mouth, see a doctor. They may prescribe a stronger topical cream or oral medication to help you find relief and speed up the healing process. Good luck, and happy itch-free days ahead!
