Prickly Heat Rash

Prickly heat, also referred to as miliaria rubra in medical terminology, is characterized by red and itchy rash of the skin, which causes a burning or prickling sensation. This condition is also known as sweat rash or heat rash. It usually occurs in hot and humid weather, which causes profuse sweating. When the skin sweats, dead skin cells and bacteria collect around the pores of the sweat glands, blocking them. This, in turn, causes an inflammation of the skin with the telltale spotted rash appearing that has the tendency of blistering.

People who are overweight and have a propensity of sweating easily are more prone to getting prickly heat rash. The rash usually occurs on the areas of the body where the skin is rubbed by clothes, and it also erupts on the back, the chest, in the armpits, feet and hands. Children and babies are also highly susceptible and have the tendency of being affected by it more than adults, due to their immature sweat glands. In them, the rash usually occurs in the folds of the skin, in the nappy area, on the neck, and so on.

Usually, the rash lasts for a few days, and then goes away by itself. However, if the humid and hot conditions should continue the prickly heat rash can last for a longer time.

What are the symptoms of prickly heat rash?

As has been mentioned above, the condition is characterized by patches of tiny red colored bumps, which feel extremely itchy or prickly. However, in severe cases of prickly heat, crystals of salt may form in the ducts of the sweat glands, causing small blisters on the affected area. The itchiness may become exacerbated leading to scratching, which could result in the skin getting infected.

How can prickly heat be treated?

Prickly heat rash is usually easily curable, especially if prompt measures of treatment and prevention are undertaken. Having cool baths and showers are a good way to keep the skin clean and reduce itching. Exposing the affected area to fresh air as much as possible also helps in clearing the rash. It is never a good idea to cover the rash with tight clothing or bandages. You could also use ointments that draw out the accumulated fluids in the areas that have blisters. Mild steroid ointments or creams that contain hydrocortisone can help in soothing the irritation and itching. Antihistamine medications are particularly helpful in cases involving chronic prickly heat. Creams containing oatmeal, calamine lotions and lotions containing Aloe Vera are also very effective against excessive itching.

How is prickly heat prevented?

There are various effective methods of preventing prickly heat. Here are a few preventive measures you can take, especially if you are susceptible to heat rashes:

• Avoid exposing yourself to strong sunlight.
• When the weather is hot and humid, take cooling baths and showers frequently.
• Try to cut down on heavy activity when it is warm and humid.
• During the hit weather, avoid wearing synthetic or tight clothing. Loose cotton clothing is always preferable because it lets the skin breathe.
• You need to change your baby’s diaper as soon as it gets wet.
• Use powders that contain cornstarch because they help in absorbing perspiration.
• Taking multi-vitamin supplements helps in strengthening the immune system thus helping to fight against bacteria.