Prickly Heat Rash

Heat rash is also known as prickly heat rate and miliaria. Though it is more common in infants, heat rash can also affect adults living in tropical climates. Symptoms usually are superficial blisters which may be intensely itchy or prickly.

Most often, heat rash is self limiting. The best way to relieve symptoms is to cool the skin and prevent sweating. Heat rash develops when the sweat ducts become blocked and perspiration is trapped under the skin.

Adults usually develop heat rash in skin folds and wherever clothing causes friction. In infants, the rash is mainly found on the head, neck, shoulders, chest and back.

Causes
It is not clear why the sweat ducts become blocked. Factors which may play a role include:
*Immature sweat ducts in babies and young children.
*Hot, humid tropical weather.
*Physical activity. Intense exercise, hard work or any activity that causes excessive sweating can lead to heat rash.
*Fabrics like nylon that does not allow sweat to evaporate normally.
*Medications which can cause heat rash include: bethanechol used to treat bladder problems and isoretinoin (acne medication).

Complications
These include:
*Infection with bacteria causing inflamed and itchy pustules especially in children in diapers.
*Heat exhaustion which can cause low blood pressure, nausea, headache and a rapid pulse. Untreated heat exhaustion can lead to heatstroke, a life-threatening condition.

Heat Rash Treatment
Heat rash is usually self-limiting. However medical care is necessary if there are signs of infection such as:
*Increased pain, swelling, redness or warmth around the affected area
*Pus draining from the lesions
*Swollen lymph nodes in the armpit, neck or groin
*Fever or chills

Mild heat rash does not require any treatment, but more severe forms may need therapy to relieve discomfort which include:
*Calamine lotion and lanolin to soothe itching
*Steroid ointment in the more severe cases

Prevention
To help protect yourself or your child from heat rash:
*Wear soft, cotton clothing.
*Avoid tight fitting clothes that can irritate the skin.
*In hot weather, stay in the shade or in an air-conditioned building or place a fan at a safe distance to circulate the air.
*Keep the sleeping area cool and well-ventilated.
*Bathe in cool water with a non-drying soap.
*Avoid using powders, creams or ointments that can block pores.

Tips for coping with heat rash
*Wear loose, lightweight clothing in hot weather.
*Stay indoors in well-ventilated cool places or in air-conditioned buildings.
*Let your skin air-dry after showering.
*Use calamine lotion or cool compresses to soothe itchy, irritated skin.
*Avoid using creams and ointments which can block the skin pores.