Heat Rash

Finding yourself covered in small, red, itchy, burning pimply-like bumps usually means you have a heat rash. This common form of rash can be easily treated and avoided.

How Do I Get Heat Rash?

This rash is caused by the sweat ducts. Unlike chafing, which is simple friction, heat rash (also known as “prickly” heat or by the medical term miliaria) is caused by excess perspiration not being able to reach the surface of the skin. Small bumps then form, causing the raised, irritated skin. When the bumps burst, sweat is released, and the burning or prickly feeling occurs.

The rash usually occurs on clothed parts of the body, where sweat is more likely to be produced. These areas include:

• Back
• Abdomen
• Neck
• Upper chest
• Groin
• Elbow crease
• Under breasts
• Overlapping folds of skin, common in overweight persons
• Between legs
• Diaper area on babies

The rash usually develops during hot, humid weather. However, it is possible to get heat rash in the winter, due to overdressing.

Those most likely to get this condition include newborns in incubators, infants, active people, overweight people, and bedridden people. It can occur in anyone, so taking proper precautions to avoid getting prickly heat is advisable.

How Do I Avoid Getting Heat Rash?

To avoid getting the rash, take the following precautions:

• Avoid heat and humidity.
• Wear lightweight and loose-fitting clothing.
• Take cool showers.
• Do not overdress.

Although heat rash cannot be completely prevented, it is always a good idea to take any precautions possible against this uncomfortable condition. This is not a rash that can be transferred from person to person, so avoiding contact with others is unnecessary.

How Do I Treat Myself?

If you find yourself with itching, burning bumps surrounded by red skin, you probably have heat rash. Most of the time, it will go away by itself. To help alleviate some of the symptoms, try the following:

• Cool off in air-conditioning or in front of a fan.
• Take a cool shower or bath, and let skin air-dry.
• Avoid most lotions or creams.
• Stay out of the heat and humidity.
• Wear loose-fitting clothing.
• Avoid oil-based products.

After you have cooled off, you may try using a calamine lotion or 1% hydrocortisone cream to relieve itching.

For babies or young children, speak to a doctor before giving them any over-the-counter drugs. Most babies can be relieved by a cool bath and thorough drying. Switching to cloth diapers may help their skin release excess sweat more proficiently. However, if a baby’s rash does not go away, do call the doctor. Sometimes this can be a symptom of something else.

In extreme cases, prickly heat can cause more problems than discomfort and nasty rashes. In these instances, it can hinder the body’s own heat regulation system. This can lead to fever, heat exhaustion or, in rare cases, even death. Consult a physician if your rash does not clear in a few days.

Areas that have been affected by a rash should be monitored for a future infection. Bumps opening in these warm, moist areas can sometimes create a breed ground for fungus or bacteria. Another infection may occur after the rash has cleared. If this happens, consult with your doctor.

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