Heat Rash
An irritating skin rash also known as prickly heat that is associated with obstruction of the sweat glands and accompanied by prickly feelings on the skin. The medical term for prickly heat is miliaria rubra, the Latin term for “red millet seeds,” which refers to the appearance of the rash. A milder form of the condition, known as miliaria crystalline, sometimes appears first as clear, shiny, fluid-filled blisters that dry up without treatment.
Symptoms
Numerous tiny, red, itchy spots cover mildly inflamed parts of the skin where the sweat collects, especially in the waist, upper body, armpits, and insides of the elbows. With prickly heat, the child is comfortable sleeping only in cool surroundings. Lack of sleep and intense skin irritation can make the child irritable.
Cause
While doctors are not completely sure of the reason behind the development of prickly heat, it is believed to be associated with trapped sweat.
Treatment
Frequent cool showers and sponging the area will relieve the itch. Calamine lotion and dusting powder may also help to ease the discomfort. Clothes should be clean, dry, starch-free, and loose to help sweat evaporate.
Prevention
Slow acclimation to hot weather will reduce the chance of prickly heat. Avoiding strenuous activities in the heat will also help prevent the problem.
Comments (1)
Heat rash?!? In December? Where are you…the Sun? Seriously though, I’ve never had heat rash, but my wife did when we were in Cabo two years ago (I burned my scalp something fierce!). It was nasty. I would recommend everyone gradually build up to the sun and heat if they are traveling. Who wants to deal with this on a vacation?