Heat Rash Symptom

From LoveToKnow Skincare

You may not even realize you're suffering from a heat rash symptom at first. That's because this uncomfortable condition manifests itself in several different ways. Some symptoms are immediately noticeable, while others develop over time. Read on to determine if you're dealing with a heat rash – and what you can do if you are.

Heat rashes often appear on babies.

About Heat Rashes

A heat rash is also known as prickly heat. This uncomfortable condition manifests itself as an itchy, pink- or red-colored rash. The rash appears as a collection of small bumps that may resemble small blisters (or may even be small blisters). Any redness is especially visible on fair skin.

It may occur anywhere on the body, but typically develops on skin that is covered with clothing. Anyone may be afflicted by heat rash, but it is particularly common among babies and individuals who live in especially dry, humid climates. On babies and adults alike, the rash may develop in the folds of the skin or areas where clothing tends to be particularly constrictive; simply the fact that the skin is overheated in any way can present the opportunity for a heat rash to develop.

What really causes the heat rash, though, is slightly more complex. The cause is an excess of sweat, which happens as a result of overheating. Excess sweat will clog the skin's pores and essentially get "trapped." The skin reacts in the only way it knows how. Since babies are often bundled up and have skin folds due to baby fat, they may develop rashes on areas like the buttocks, crotch, chest, neck and stomach. Of course, adults can develop the rash in these areas too, but it's less likely because the pores of babies and children are also quite a bit smaller than those of adults.

Recognizing a Heat Rash Symptom

There are several symptoms indicative of a heat rash. Note that not all symptoms are associated with all heat rashes; for example, you may experience itchiness while another individual might not at all. Traits that are common in heat rashes, though, include:

Dots, pimples or bumps that are pink-tinged or red in color
Red, visibly irritated skin

Other symptoms vary based on the severity of the heat rash. In some rare circumstances, a skin infection may occur as a result of irritation caused by clothing (or even scratching). The symptoms of an infection include:

Red streaks branching out from the rash site
Pain
Swelling
Warm sensation
Pus draining from the rash site
Swollen lymph nodes in the groin, neck or armpits
Fever over 100 degrees, or fever-like symptoms (such as chills)

If any of these symptoms are present, it is important to seek medical attention.

Treatment for Symptoms

Fortunately, most heat rashes heal on their own within a few days (usually under a week). If the heat rash symptoms do not improve or appear to get worse, seek a doctor's assistance. A normal heat rash, however, can benefit from a few easy treatments to keep the skin cooler and more comfortable.

Remove any clothing that covers the afflicted area. If this is not feasible, wear something very loose and light.
Expose the skin to cool air in a shady spot.
Do not rub the afflicted skin with a towel; this can further aggravate the rash. Instead, let it air dry after a shower.
A cool, damp washcloth applied directly onto the affected area may provide relief from the itchy, overheated sensation.
Avoid long, hot or even warm showers. A shorter shower in lukewarm water is preferable.
Use an over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to provide itch relief.
Steer clear of body lotions, ointments, body oils and the like – these can trap moisture and may increase discomfort.
Sleep in a cool area and limit the blankets or comforters covering the afflicted area, if possible.
Avoid the temptation to scratch! This is particularly important for young children. Consider covering their hands with soft socks at night.