HPV infection is common and does not usually lead to the development of warts, cancers, or even symptoms. In fact, the majority of people infected with HPV have no symptoms or lesions at all. Determination of whether or not a person is infected with HPV involves tests that identify the genetic material (DNA) of the virus.
For this reason, itâs good to know of natural remedies that one can access in the wild and use immediately, so as to limit the discomfort. If possible, gently wash the affected skin in cool water (avoid hot water as this can intensify the itchiness) as soon as possible after touching the poison ivy.
Can you recognize the most common summer skin irritants? Poison ivy grows as vines or low shrubs in most climates. Each leaf on a poison ivy plant has three smaller leaflets. Contact with any part of the poison ivy plant can cause red, swollen skin, blisters and severe itching, sometimes within hours after exposure. A poison ivy rash usually resolves on its own within a few weeks. In the meantime, soothe irritated skin with an over-the-counter topical treatment, such as calamine lotion.