I have a poison ivy rash. If I use anti-itch meds and don't scratch, how long can I expect the rash to last?

I was doing yard work three days ago and was around poison ivy. Though I didn't think much about it at the time, I now have the rash. The itching is minimal right now and I am using poison ivy meds that I got in the drug store. I just want to know how long it will last if I don't scratch it? And will it spread?

I have a poison ivy rash. If I use anti-itch meds and don't scratch, how long can I expect the rash to last?
It won't spread but you may have places where the oil was in contact with your skin that haven't reacted yet. The rash lasts about a week but it will get better everyday.





I am severly allergic to it - you arent but a great remedy is using something called Fells Naptha soap. It is an old-fasioned laundry detergent bar you can get at a lot of grocery stores, but it will dry the rash right up and it isn't dangerous.





Itching DOES NOT cause it to spread but it will break the blisters and can result in infection.
Reply:It depends on your body's ability to heal. Use calamine lotion to help dry it out and benadryl to help with the itching. It'll probably be around for a few days. Definitely DO NOT ITCH it as it will cause it to spread. If you do touch your skin in an affected area wash your hands thoroughly to avoid speading it elsewhere.
Reply:Depends on the individual. Usually lasts 7 days or so. For me, the OTC meds don't do much. I have to have the steroids to get over it.
Reply:About 14 days. It spreads. There is a wash available at the drug store, its expensive- about $29.00, that washes away the oil and speeds the healing process dramatically. I can't remember the product name, but the price will tell you if you're looking at the right stuff.
Reply:Yes, it will spread and you are better off going to the doctor and getting stronger meds for this. I had a friend that was also working in the yard and before she knew it she had it all over her. Everything you touch is spreading that stuff. And I know it is miserable. You could even check with your pharmacist. Some of the meds we buy over the counter are just treating the symptom and not taking care of the real issue. Hope this helps.
Reply:2-3 days
Reply:2 weeks, get some cortisone and pink lotion