Prickly Heat

An irritating skin rash, also known as heat rash, that is associated with obstruction of the sweat glands and accompanied by prickly feelings on the skin. The medical term for prickly heat, miliaria rubra, means “red millet seeds” and refers to the appearance of the rash. A milder form of the condition (miliaria crystallina) sometimes appears first as clear, shiny, fluid-filled blisters that dry up without treatment.

Symptoms
Numerous tiny, red itchy spots occur, covering mildly inflamed skin where the sweat collects (especially the waist, upper trunk, armpits, and insides of the elbows).

Cause
While doctors are not completely sure of the mechanism behind the development of prickly heat, it is believed to be associated with sweat that is trapped in the skin.

Treatment
Frequent cool showers and sponging the area with cool water can help ease the itch. Calamine lotion, oatmeal baths, and dusting powder also may ease the discomfort. Clothing should be clean, dry, starch-free, and loose to help sweat evaporate.

Prevention
Slow acclimation to hot weather and avoiding heavy exercise will reduce the chance of prickly heat.