Poison Ivy and Some Remedies

After trying seemingly every natural product out there to treat my poison ivy rash, and not being able to get to Chinatown to have a 'soak' cooked up for myself (given my busy schedule here at the office), I have had the typical patient experience of this nasty plant's poison.  I always preach that the right medicine for the right pathology; that's why I work closely with several surgeons and allotpathic specialists.  An S.O.S. call to my internist was key here.  My dear doctor squeezed me in as his last patient of the day, and together, we had some good laughs over my latest adventure.  A few steroid pills and seriously strong topical creme and one day later, I'm like a new person.  No itchy skin, no burning and the fluid has drained from the dermal layer of my skin.  The redness is still there, but no symptoms.  The prednisone is pretty evil stuff (can give you palpitations, insomnia, bloating), but for 2 days, I'll bite the bullet and get this rash over with at last.  I think I'll take my doctor's advice and be a good patient....I'll take this weekend off from the hedges and hit some golf balls instead!  Doctor heal thyself...

Here's Your Healthy Tip of the Day: ....special thanks to all my friends in Wurtsboro for their kindness, compassion and healthy tips to make MY experience with poison ivy more bearable.  A very special thank you to Connie, who, when giving me natural rememdies, reminded me that I really should be checking for ticks....I'll talk about that next time, 'cause I had nothing else to worry about for the moment.  For all you urbanites out there dashing out to the countryside for some fresh air, fun and relaxation....just remember, it's a jungle out there!  Know before you go and be prepared for everything!