How to Recognize and Treat Heat Rash

Heat rash, also known as prickly heat or Miliaria, may occur in hot and humid environments where sweat is not easily removed from the surface of the skin by evaporation. It occurs when sweat becomes stuck in the pores and spreads into surrounding tissue, irritating it. Heat rash manifests as tiny red or pink, blister like bumps that are extremely itchy. Common areas for heat rash are the back, neck, chest, or anywhere on the body where there is consistent chafing.

When extensive or complicated by infection, heat rash can be so uncomfortable that it inhibits sleep and impairs normal functioning or could even result in temporary disability. With treatment, heat rash usually clears up in two to four days.

Preventing Heat Rash:

* Drink plenty of liquids, but avoid alcohol - it is dehydrating
* Pace yourself when working outside
* Apply cornstarch baby powder to chafing areas
* Wear lightweight clothing that allows skin to breath
* Seek air conditioning, or take breaks in a cool area
* Take cold showers to keep your general body temperature down
* Use a fan while sleeping
* Lie on a towel to absorb perspiration
* Replace minerals lost in perspiration by drinking sports drinks like Gatorade

To Treat Heat Rash:

* Take a bath in cool water, without soap, every couple of hours. Peppermint leaves can be refreshing in the bath.
* Let your skin air dry
* Stay in a cool, dry or air conditioned area
* Apply calamine lotion or 1% hydrocortisone cream (not lotion or ointment!) to the worst itchy spots three times daily
* Put cornstarch in body creases or chafing areas
* Don't use ointments or lotions that can block your pores and prevent sweating
* For small areas of rash, apply a cool, wet washcloth for five to ten minutes each time
* Use a fan while sleeping

You should contact your doctor if the symptoms get worse, are accompanied by cramps, headache, nausea, dizziness, or rapid heartbeat, or the rash lasts more than three or four days.

For more information:

WebMD: http://www.webmd.com/content/article/8/1680_54300

MedicineNet: http://www.medicinenet.com/heat_rash/article.htm

Dr.Greene.com explains how to distinguish between heat rash and other skin conditions: http://www.drgreene.com/21_541.html