What is Poison Oak?
The name poison oak refers to shrub-like forms of poison ivy and other plant species within, related to, or closely similar to the cashew family, Anacardiaceae.
Symptoms
When a person comes into contact with Urushiol, a poison found in poison oak leaves, branches and roots, a rash begins to form. Direct contact and transfer of the oil produced in Urushiol to the skin causes the human body's immune system to begin fighting against this chemical invader and produce a rash at the area of contact. The rash will appear at the point of complete absorption of the oil by the body, as the rash is the result of your body's immune system attacking the poison.
Poison oak is spread when oils remain on the skin and clothing, and is then transferred to other parts of the body. In some cases, spreads to other people. To avoid spreading poison oak, immediately clean the effected area and remove all clothing until they can be properly cleaned. Scratching the rash and picking at the skin around it will only function to spread poison oak to other parts of the body. Any slight touch where oil remains on the hands, or exposed area, will cause the body to absorb it and then create a rash as it fights the invader.
Tags: body immune, body immune system, immune system, , , parts body, poison other