Questions on Poison Ivy & Lice

Dear Dr. Spence,

Yes, I’ve got it. Poison ivy. Can you tell me how I can treat this and get some relief! Does it ever go away?

Signed, Imma Itchin

Dear Imma,

I used to think I was immune somehow to the effects of urushiol, the chemical substance responsible for the horrendous itchy eruption we call poison ivy. Fact is, I guess I’d never actually made contact with the vine. Not only was it a miserable experience, but a learning one as well. The biggest single myth, that it can be spread through scratching other areas of the skin, is completely false. At initial exposure, if it contacted your hand and then you touched your face, then it may appear on your face. Once the chemical is washed off, however, the potential for spread is gone. Typically, the rash will be at its worst on days five through seven with resolution occurring in approximately three weeks. To assist with the intense itching, avoid hot showers or baths and sun exposure. Application of wet, cold towels to the area may also offer relief. Over the counter agents such as calamine, techno or saran can be used with varying degrees of success. In a pinch, depending on the surface area involved, I use a tapering dose of oral prednisone. Not only is it dirt cheap, but it is also more effective than the pre-packaged dose packs that often result in a flare once the pack is completed.

Dear Dr. Spence,

My child has lice. What’s going on – how can I treat them effectively without recurrence? Signed, "Bugs" Onnus

Dear Bugs,

Anyone can get lice, but it is most commonly affects children ages 3-11. An adult louse is about the size of a sesame seed and is tan or gray in color. It can live on the scalp for a month. They feed on blood – it is the saliva of these little beasts that is felt to cause the itching. A female louse may lay six to tens eggs (or nits) per day. These may be mistaken for dandruff, but they are close to the scalp and affixed to the hair shaft. Most kids contract lice through direct head to head contact at school, on the playground, at camp or at a slumber party. They can also be passed on via clothes, combs or brushes. There are dozens of potential treatments for lice, some over-the-counter, and some by prescription. Clothes and linens should be washed thoroughly in hot water then dried at high heat for at least 20 minutes. All non-washable items (stuffed animals) should be placed in sealed plastic bags for two weeks. Floors and furniture should be vacuumed and all combs and brushes should be soaked in rubbing alcohol for one hour.

Do you have any medical questions or concerns that you would like addressed? You can contact Dr. Spence by email at panhandledailydose@hotmail.com or by mailing your question to Daily Dose, P.O. Box 6107, Marianna, FL 32446.