Can Adults Get Heat Rash

From LoveToKnow Skincare

Can adults get heat rash or can only children get it? The answer is yes. Heat rash can affect anyone in hot, humid weather.

What is Heat Rash?

Heat rash is caused when the body overheats and sweat ducts get blocked and swell. The result is tiny dots or pimples that are red or pinkish in color. It usually occurs on areas of the body covered by clothes. It can range in severity from blisters to deep, red lumps.

Common Symptoms

Symptoms of heat rash are:

Small, itchy red bumps
Prickly, stinging or burning feeling

Can Adults Get Heat Rash?

Heat rash is most common in babies and children but adults can get it as well. It can occur in adults if they are in hot, humid conditions. Nicknamed "prickly heat," heat rash makes the skin feel prickly and develop small red dots.

Risk factors that can contribute to heat rash include:

Weather and climate that are tropical and humid
Physical activity that is intense and causes you to sweat abundantly

Treatment

If an adult or child gets heat rash, it most likely will heal on its own. There are several things to do to treat and relieve the symptoms including:

Stay out of the heat and move to a cool, shady spot away from the direct sun.
Do not wear clothing that may further irritate the rash; try to wear loose cotton materials that will keep heat and sweat off your skin.
Let air get to the rash area and keep it dry.
Clean the affected site with a mild soap.
If the rash is itchy, use an over-the-counter antihistamine such as Benadryl.
A bath with baking soda or oatmeal can relieve pain and itching.
After your bath allow skin to air-dry instead of toweling off which can lead to further irritation.
Creams and ointments can block pores making the rash worse. It is best to avoid them until your rash clears up.

Complications

If you or someone you know happens to have heat rash, it is important to watch for infection. Signs of an infection include:

Pain, swelling, redness, or warmth around the rash area
Pus drainage
Swollen lymph nodes
Fever of 100 F or higher
Chills with no known cause
Heat exhaustion can occur which causes dizziness, nausea and a rapid pulse

If any of these symptoms exist, seek medical attention. A doctor will be able to diagnose your condition visually since no tests exist to confirm heat rash.

Preventing Heat Rash

Preventing heat rash is the same for both adults and children. If you or your child are going to be out in hot weather, be sure to dress lightly and in cool fabrics such as cotton. Try to keep your skin dry and cool. If possible, stay in air conditioning if the temperature is hot and humid. It is also advised to keep your sleeping area cool and well-ventilated.