Morning glory rash is a form of contact dermatitis caused by sap from morning glory plants. It typically results in localized redness and itching. The rash is usually a mild, temporary skin irritation.
Recognizing Morning Glory Rash
Morning glory rash often appears as redness, swelling, and intense itching on affected skin. Small blisters may form, and the rash can appear as linear streaks if the plant brushed against the skin. Symptoms usually appear within hours of contact, although they can sometimes take longer to appear. This reaction commonly affects exposed areas like hands, arms, legs, and face.
At-Home Treatment Strategies
Immediately and thoroughly wash affected skin with soap and water to remove lingering plant sap. To alleviate discomfort, applying cool compresses to the rash can help reduce inflammation and itching. Soaking in a colloidal oatmeal bath offers a soothing effect, and topical applications of calamine lotion can provide further relief from itching. For more persistent itching, a thin layer of 1% hydrocortisone cream can be applied to the affected areas.
Preventing scratching is important to avoid breaking the skin, which can lead to secondary bacterial infections. If pain or discomfort accompanies the rash, over-the-counter pain relievers can be used as directed. The rash typically resolves within a few weeks with consistent home treatment.
When Professional Medical Care is Needed
While most morning glory rashes can be managed at home, certain signs indicate the need for professional medical attention. A doctor’s visit is advisable if the rash becomes severe, spreads extensively across the body, or affects sensitive areas such as the eyes, mouth, or genitals. Persistent, intense itching that is not relieved by home remedies also warrants medical consultation.
Signs of infection, such as increasing pain, pus, or red streaks, require prompt evaluation. A fever accompanying the rash also indicates necessary medical care. If the rash shows no improvement or worsens after several days of home treatment, a healthcare provider can assess it. A doctor might prescribe stronger topical corticosteroids, oral antihistamines for severe itching, or antibiotics if a secondary infection develops.
Preventing Morning Glory Rash
Preventing morning glory rash involves recognizing the plant and taking precautions during gardening or outdoor activities. Learning to identify morning glory plants helps avoid direct contact. When working where these plants are present, wear protective clothing like long sleeves, long pants, and gloves to create a barrier against the sap.
After potential contact with morning glory plants, wash skin, tools, and clothing promptly to remove plant residue before it causes a reaction. To remove morning glory plants from a garden, methods include careful hand-pulling of young seedlings, thorough digging to remove roots, or smothering larger areas with landscape fabric or thick mulch. When using any removal method, prevent the spread of seeds and plant fragments to avoid future growth.