Health Watch is a Public Service of the Office of News and Publications and is intended to provide general information only and should not replace the advice of a medical professional. You should contact your physician if you have questions about any of these topics.
This week on Health Watch, we're talking about fall allergies and other irritants. Fall is a great time for outdoor activities. Even if you don't suffer from other allergies, you may run into some things outdoors that can put a damper on your fun - like poison ivy.
Poison ivy can grow nearly anywhere, and it remains a potential problem until the first freeze. Dr. Amit Pandya, a dermatologist at UT Southwestern Medical Center, says there are some things you should do to treat poison ivy exposure. Wash any exposed skin and clothing with soap and water immediately to keep the rash from spreading. Use cold compresses and over-the-counter creams for relief. Try to avoid additional exposure, which will cause a worse rash. In severe cases, you may need to see a doctor.
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October 2006
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