Heat rash, also known as prickly heat is common and can be uncomfortable.
The medical name for heat rash is miliaria. It happens when sweat becomes trapped due to a blockage in sweat glands in the deeper layers of skin.
People with overweight or obesity and people who sweat easily are more likely to get prickly heat. Also, babies and children are more prone to it because their sweat glands are still developing.
Symptoms
- small bumps or spots, called papules.
- an itching or prickling sensation
- mild swelling
On white skin, the spots are red.
On darker skin, they can be harder to see, but if a doctor uses dermoscopy — the spots may show up as white globules under the skin with darker halos surrounding them.
Heat rash often affects areas where sweating is more likely, including the:
- face
- neck
- under the breasts
- under the scrotum
It can also appear in skin folds and areas where skin rubs against clothing, such as the back, chest, and stomach.
If bacteria enter the plugged sweat glands, it can lead to inflammation and infection.
Treatment
Tips include:
- Wear light, loose cotton clothing.
- When exercising, choose a cool place or a cooler time of the day.
- Use showers, fans, and air conditioning to reduce the body’s temperature.
- Avoid staying in wet clothing.
- Apply a cool compress, such as a damp cloth or an ice pack wrapped in a towel, to the rash for up to 20 minutes at a time.
- Drink plenty of water, to prevent dehydration.
- If the rash is itchy, tap or pat it instead of scratching it.
Some over-the-counter preparations that can help soothe and resolve persistent heat rash are:
- Topical preparations — such as calamine, menthol, and camphor-based creams or ointments — can help ease the itching. Use an emollient with calamine, however, as it can dry the skin.
Read Complete Article at Treat Heat Rash
Also Read: Eat your Way to Fabulous Skin
