Hey, my boyfriends got really bad poison ivy, did a home remedy with baking soda!

Hey, my boyfriends got really bad poison ivy, did a home remedy with baking soda?

made a paste with baking soda.. the site said to wait til it dries, and then rinse it off with warm water and soap...

its on right now, and he said its the only time that it hasnt itched, and he wants to keep it on.

should i rinse it off, or keep it on? does it matter?

3 weeks ago
we have already gone to the ER last night, and the doctor said that if he gets a fever or nauseau, to go back in, but for now, just take benadryl.. have been, just wondering if the baking soda should stay on or rinse it off?

One of the most effective methods for removing the oil is to use mineral oil (paraffin oil) or pure ethanol to dissolve the oil so that it can be washed away from skin, clothes, tools and other items. According to the FDA, in case of known contact, exposed skin needs to be cleaned within 10 minutes of contact with rubbing alcohol, then washed with water only (soap can move the urushiol to other parts of the body). After washing the contact area the FDA recommends taking a shower with soap and warm water. When tools and clothing come into contact with the oil, the use of gloves can prevent contact between any oil and the skin. Tools and other objects that have had contact with the oil are cleaned with rubbing alcohol and water.

Applying cool compresses on the affected areas is sometimes adequate for relief. There are several over-the-counter lotions and ointments for treating poison ivy irritation and itchiness. However, in contrast to most allergies, diphenhydramine has no effect on the rash but can provide some relief from the itching. It is taken orally and not applied as a topical cream. There are several prescription medications that are administered for treatment; for example, hydroxyzine hydrochloride (sold as Atarax or Rezine) helps relieve itching and dry blisters. In extreme cases cortisone and prednisone pills or shots are used.

Numerous other folk remedies for poison ivy rash are known, including the crushed stems of the spotted touch-me-not plant, also called jewelweed.