Types of Heat Rash: Symptoms, Causes, and Effective Treatments
What are the different types of heat rash. How can you identify heat rash symptoms. What causes heat rash and who is most at risk. How can heat rash be treated effectively at home. When should you seek medical attention for heat rash.
Understanding Heat Rash: A Comprehensive Overview
Heat rash, also known as prickly heat, summer rash, or wildfire rash, is a common skin condition that occurs when sweat gland ducts become blocked. Medically referred to as miliaria, this condition can affect people of all ages, but it’s particularly common in babies and young children. Heat rash typically develops in hot, humid environments or during periods of intense physical activity.
The primary cause of heat rash is the obstruction of sweat glands in the deeper layers of skin. This blockage prevents sweat from reaching the surface, leading to inflammation, redness, and the formation of blister-like lesions. In some cases, the trapped sweat can create an environment conducive to bacterial growth, potentially resulting in infection.
Identifying the Three Types of Heat Rash
Heat rash manifests in three distinct forms, each with its own characteristics and level of severity:
1. Miliaria Crystallina
This is the mildest and most common form of heat rash. It’s characterized by:
- Small, clear or white bumps filled with sweat
- Bumps measuring 1-2 millimeters across
- No associated itching or pain
- Higher prevalence in infants compared to adults
2. Miliaria Rubra
Commonly known as prickly heat, this type of heat rash is more severe and uncomfortable. Its features include:
- Larger, red bumps
- Inflammation and lack of sweat in the affected area
- Occurrence in deeper layers of skin
- Potential to develop into miliaria pustulosa if the bumps fill with pus
3. Miliaria Profunda
This is the least common but most severe form of heat rash. It is characterized by:
- Formation in the deepest layer of skin
- Relatively large, tough, flesh-colored bumps
- Tendency to recur and become chronic
Recognizing Heat Rash Symptoms
The symptoms of heat rash can vary depending on its type and severity. However, some common signs include:
- Small bumps or spots (papules) on the skin
- Itching or prickling sensation
- Mild swelling
- Redness on light skin tones
- Less visible discoloration on darker skin tones
Heat rash often appears in areas prone to sweating, such as the face, neck, under the breasts, and in the groin area. It can also develop in skin folds and areas where skin rubs against clothing, including the back, chest, and stomach.
Risk Factors and Causes of Heat Rash
Several factors can increase the likelihood of developing heat rash:
- Hot and humid environments
- Intense physical activity
- Fever
- Wearing synthetic fabrics close to the skin
- Prolonged bed rest
- Use of certain medications, especially those that reduce sweating
- Radiation therapy
- Specific health conditions, such as toxic epidermal necrolysis
Individuals who are overweight or obese, as well as those who sweat easily, are more susceptible to heat rash. Babies and young children are particularly prone to this condition due to their still-developing sweat glands.
Effective Home Treatments for Heat Rash
In most cases, heat rash resolves on its own within 24 hours. However, several home remedies can help alleviate symptoms and promote faster healing:
- Move to a cooler, less humid environment
- Remove clothing and items that may increase sweating
- Wear light, loose-fitting cotton clothing
- Use fans, air conditioning, or take cool showers to reduce body temperature
- Apply a cool compress to the affected area for up to 20 minutes at a time
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water
- Avoid scratching the rash; instead, gently tap or pat it if itchy
Over-the-counter preparations can also help soothe persistent heat rash:
- Calamine lotion to relieve itching
- Menthol or camphor-based creams for cooling relief
- Emollient creams with calamine to soothe without drying the skin
- Steroid creams to reduce inflammation (for individuals over 10 years old)
- Antibacterial products to prevent or manage infection
Preventing Heat Rash: Practical Tips
While heat rash is often unavoidable in certain conditions, several preventive measures can reduce your risk:
- Choose cool, well-ventilated environments for exercise
- Schedule outdoor activities during cooler parts of the day
- Use lightweight, breathable bedding
- Avoid staying in wet clothing after swimming or sweating
- Maintain good hygiene to prevent bacterial growth
- Use non-comedogenic sunscreens to avoid clogging pores
- Stay hydrated to help regulate body temperature
When to Seek Medical Attention for Heat Rash
While heat rash typically resolves on its own, certain circumstances warrant medical attention:
- The rash persists for more than a few days despite home treatment
- Signs of infection appear, such as increased pain, swelling, or pus
- You develop a fever or chills
- The rash spreads to large areas of the body
- You experience severe discomfort or disruption to daily activities
A healthcare provider can assess the severity of the heat rash and recommend appropriate treatments, which may include prescription-strength topical medications or antibiotics if an infection is present.
Heat Rash in Special Populations: Infants and Athletes
Certain groups are more susceptible to heat rash and may require special consideration:
Infants and Young Children
Babies are particularly prone to heat rash due to their underdeveloped sweat glands. To protect infants:
- Dress them in lightweight, breathable clothing
- Keep the nursery cool and well-ventilated
- Use breathable diapers and change them frequently
- Avoid using thick lotions or oils that may clog pores
Athletes and Active Individuals
People who engage in intense physical activity are at higher risk of heat rash. Athletes can minimize their risk by:
- Wearing moisture-wicking, breathable athletic wear
- Taking regular breaks to cool down during intense workouts
- Showering promptly after exercise to remove sweat and bacteria
- Using antiperspirants to reduce excessive sweating
Understanding the nuances of heat rash in these populations can help prevent its occurrence and ensure prompt, effective treatment when it does develop.
The Role of Climate and Environment in Heat Rash Development
The environment plays a crucial role in the development of heat rash. Hot, humid climates are particularly conducive to this condition. Understanding how different climates affect the skin can help individuals take appropriate precautions:
Tropical and Subtropical Climates
In these regions, high temperatures combined with high humidity levels create the perfect conditions for heat rash. The body produces more sweat to cool down, but the humid air prevents sweat from evaporating effectively, leading to blocked pores and heat rash. Residents and visitors to these areas should:
- Use air conditioning or fans to maintain a cool indoor environment
- Take frequent cool showers to rinse away sweat and cool the skin
- Wear loose, lightweight clothing made from natural fibers
- Stay hydrated to help regulate body temperature
Arid Climates
While less common, heat rash can still occur in dry, hot climates. In these environments, the skin may become dehydrated, leading to irritation and increased susceptibility to heat rash. To prevent this:
- Use a humidifier indoors to add moisture to the air
- Apply lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizers to keep skin hydrated
- Drink plenty of water to maintain skin hydration from within
- Seek shade during the hottest parts of the day
Occupational Environments
Certain work environments can increase the risk of heat rash, particularly those that involve exposure to high temperatures or require protective gear that limits air circulation. Workers in industries such as manufacturing, construction, or firefighting should:
- Take regular breaks in cool areas
- Use cooling vests or other personal cooling equipment when possible
- Change out of sweaty clothing during breaks
- Follow workplace safety guidelines for heat exposure
By understanding how different environments contribute to heat rash, individuals can take proactive steps to protect their skin and maintain comfort in various climates and work settings.
Long-Term Management and Complications of Recurrent Heat Rash
While most cases of heat rash resolve quickly with appropriate care, some individuals may experience recurrent episodes or develop complications. Understanding long-term management strategies and potential complications is crucial for those prone to heat rash:
Managing Recurrent Heat Rash
For individuals who frequently develop heat rash, a proactive approach to skin care and environmental management is essential:
- Develop a consistent skincare routine using non-comedogenic products
- Regularly exfoliate to prevent pore blockages
- Consider using antiperspirants in areas prone to excessive sweating
- Consult a dermatologist for personalized advice and treatment options
- Keep a log of heat rash occurrences to identify potential triggers
Potential Complications
While rare, heat rash can lead to more serious complications if left untreated or if it occurs frequently:
- Secondary bacterial infections
- Scarring from severe or recurrent cases
- Heat exhaustion or heat stroke if the body’s ability to cool itself is significantly impaired
- Psychological distress from chronic skin discomfort
Individuals experiencing frequent or severe heat rash should seek medical advice to rule out underlying conditions and develop an effective management plan.
Emerging Treatments and Research
As understanding of heat rash evolves, new treatments and preventive strategies are being explored:
- Development of advanced moisture-wicking fabrics for clothing and bedding
- Research into topical treatments that improve sweat gland function
- Investigation of dietary factors that may influence sweat production and composition
- Exploration of microbiome-based approaches to prevent bacterial overgrowth on the skin
Staying informed about these developments can help individuals with recurrent heat rash access the most current and effective treatments available.
By understanding the long-term implications of heat rash and staying abreast of new management strategies, individuals can minimize the impact of this condition on their daily lives and overall health. Regular communication with healthcare providers and adherence to personalized care plans are key to successfully managing recurrent heat rash and preventing complications.
Symptoms, treatment, appearance, and causes
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Medical News Today only shows you brands and products that we stand behind.
Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we:
- Evaluate ingredients and composition: Do they have the potential to cause harm?
- Fact-check all health claims: Do they align with the current body of scientific evidence?
- Assess the brand: Does it operate with integrity and adhere to industry best practices?
We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness.
Read more about our vetting process.
Was this helpful?
Heat rash — also known as prickly heat, summer rash, or wildfire rash — happens when the sweat gland ducts become blocked. Triggers include exercise and hot weather. Cooling or gently patting the rash may provide some relief.
The medical name for heat rash is miliaria. It happens when sweat becomes trapped due to a blockage in sweat glands in the deeper layers of skin.
Inflammation, redness, and blister-like lesions can result. Sometimes, an infection can develop.
People with overweight or obesity and people who sweat easily are more likely to get prickly heat. Also, babies and children are more prone to it because their sweat glands are still developing.
Symptoms include:
- small bumps or spots, called papules.
- an itching or prickling sensation
- mild swelling
On white skin, the spots are red.
On darker skin, they can be harder to see, but if a doctor uses dermoscopy — a kind of lighted microscope for examining the skin — the spots may show up as white globules under the skin with darker halos surrounding them.
Heat rash often affects areas where sweating is more likely, including the:
- face
- neck
- under the breasts
- under the scrotum
It can also appear in skin folds and areas where skin rubs against clothing, such as the back, chest, and stomach.
If bacteria enter the plugged sweat glands, it can lead to inflammation and infection.
Why do some people sweat more than others?
Heat rash often goes away on its own within about 24 hours.
To help it resolve, move to a cool area with less humidity, if possible, and remove any clothing and other items that may increase sweating.
Other tips include:
- Wear light, loose cotton clothing.
- When exercising, choose a cool place or a cooler time of the day.
- Use showers, fans, and air conditioning to reduce the body’s temperature.
- Avoid any irritants that make symptoms worse, such as some synthetic fabrics.
- Avoid staying in wet clothing, such as after swimming.
- Apply a cool compress, such as a damp cloth or an ice pack wrapped in a towel, to the rash for up to 20 minutes at a time.
- Use light bedding.
- Drink plenty of fluids, preferably water, to prevent dehydration.
- If the rash is itchy, tap or pat it instead of scratching it.
Here, learn about home and natural remedies for heat rash.
Some over-the-counter preparations can help soothe and resolve persistent heat rash. They include:
- Topical preparations — such as calamine, menthol, and camphor-based creams or ointments — can help ease the itching. Use an emollient with calamine, however, as it can dry the skin.
- Steroid creams can reduce itching and inflammation in people aged over 10 years.
- Antibacterial products can help manage or prevent an infection.
Some of these products are available online. Antibacterial handwash is also available for purchase online.
There are three types of heat rash, or miliaria:
Miliaria crystalline: This is the most common form. It causes small, clear or white bumps filled with sweat to form on the skin’s surface. The bumps measure 1–2 millimeters across. It causes no itching or pain and is more common in babies than adults.
Miliaria rubra: This type is more commonly known as prickly heat, and it causes larger bumps, inflammation, and a lack of sweat in the affected area. It occurs in deeper layers of skin and is more uncomfortable. If the bumps fill with pus, the medical name becomes miliaria pustulosa.
Miliaria profunda: This is the least common type of heat rash. It forms in the deepest layer of skin, and it can recur and become chronic. It causes relatively large, tough, flesh-colored bumps.
Heat rash, or miliaria, happens when sweat gland ducts become blocked.
This may be due to:
- sweat glands still developing, as in newborns
- a hot and humid environment
- physical activity
- a fever
- wearing synthetic fabrics close to the skin
- wearing a nonporous bandage
- prolonged bed rest
- the use of some medications, especially those that reduce sweating
- radiation therapy
- some health conditions, such as toxic epidermal necrolysis
Heat rash usually disappears without treatment. However, see a healthcare provider if:
- the rash persists or becomes more severe
- there are signs of an infection, such as open blisters or pustular lesions
- there are signs of heat exhaustion and an inability to sweat
- there are other symptoms, such as a fever
Many illnesses cause rashes, which may look similar to heat rash. A doctor can determine the underlying cause.
Learn about the many other types of rash and their causes.
Heat rashes are not often dangerous, but if symptoms last longer than a few days or signs of an infection appear, see a healthcare provider.
They will examine the rash, possibly using dermoscopy for a closer inspection.
If necessary, they may also take a skin punch biopsy or use imaging technology to identify the cause of the rash.
Skin changes are a common symptom of many conditions. Heat rash can resemble other health issues, including:
- viral infections, such as chickenpox or measles
- bacterial infections, such as impetigo
- hives, due to an allergic reaction
- fungal skin infections, such as candidiasis
- insect bites
- folliculitis, due to a blockage in hair follicles
- acute HIV
- a response to HIV treatment
If any of the following symptoms occur, they may indicate that the cause of the rash is more serious:
- a fever
- a cough
- a runny nose
- fatigue
- enlarged lymph nodes
- muscle aches
To reduce the risk of prickly heat or heat rash, try to:
- Avoid activities or locations that increase sweating.
- If possible, use air conditioning or a fan.
- Wearing light clothing made from natural fibers, such as cotton.
- When possible, minimize exposure to hot and humid weather.
- Gently exfoliate the skin to remove dead skin cells and sebum that may clog the sweat glands.
- Take cool showers frequently and be sure to pat the skin completely dry.
Exfoliators are available online.
Heat rash is common, especially among babies and anyone in a hot, humid climate.
It usually goes away without treatment, although home remedies can help ease the rash and relieve any discomfort.
If heat rash seems to be involving deeper layers of skin, if there are signs of infection, such as blisters, or if it just lasts for more than a few days, seek medical attention.
Many health issues can cause rashes that resemble heat rash, so if a person has other symptoms, such as a fever, it is important to receive a diagnosis.
Symptoms, treatment, appearance, and causes
We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission Here’s our process.
Medical News Today only shows you brands and products that we stand behind.
Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we:
- Evaluate ingredients and composition: Do they have the potential to cause harm?
- Fact-check all health claims: Do they align with the current body of scientific evidence?
- Assess the brand: Does it operate with integrity and adhere to industry best practices?
We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness.
Read more about our vetting process.
Was this helpful?
Heat rash — also known as prickly heat, summer rash, or wildfire rash — happens when the sweat gland ducts become blocked. Triggers include exercise and hot weather. Cooling or gently patting the rash may provide some relief.
The medical name for heat rash is miliaria. It happens when sweat becomes trapped due to a blockage in sweat glands in the deeper layers of skin.
Inflammation, redness, and blister-like lesions can result. Sometimes, an infection can develop.
People with overweight or obesity and people who sweat easily are more likely to get prickly heat. Also, babies and children are more prone to it because their sweat glands are still developing.
Symptoms include:
- small bumps or spots, called papules.
- an itching or prickling sensation
- mild swelling
On white skin, the spots are red.
On darker skin, they can be harder to see, but if a doctor uses dermoscopy — a kind of lighted microscope for examining the skin — the spots may show up as white globules under the skin with darker halos surrounding them.
Heat rash often affects areas where sweating is more likely, including the:
- face
- neck
- under the breasts
- under the scrotum
It can also appear in skin folds and areas where skin rubs against clothing, such as the back, chest, and stomach.
If bacteria enter the plugged sweat glands, it can lead to inflammation and infection.
Why do some people sweat more than others?
Heat rash often goes away on its own within about 24 hours.
To help it resolve, move to a cool area with less humidity, if possible, and remove any clothing and other items that may increase sweating.
Other tips include:
- Wear light, loose cotton clothing.
- When exercising, choose a cool place or a cooler time of the day.
- Use showers, fans, and air conditioning to reduce the body’s temperature.
- Avoid any irritants that make symptoms worse, such as some synthetic fabrics.
- Avoid staying in wet clothing, such as after swimming.
- Apply a cool compress, such as a damp cloth or an ice pack wrapped in a towel, to the rash for up to 20 minutes at a time.
- Use light bedding.
- Drink plenty of fluids, preferably water, to prevent dehydration.
- If the rash is itchy, tap or pat it instead of scratching it.
Here, learn about home and natural remedies for heat rash.
Some over-the-counter preparations can help soothe and resolve persistent heat rash. They include:
- Topical preparations — such as calamine, menthol, and camphor-based creams or ointments — can help ease the itching. Use an emollient with calamine, however, as it can dry the skin.
- Steroid creams can reduce itching and inflammation in people aged over 10 years.
- Antibacterial products can help manage or prevent an infection.
Some of these products are available online. Antibacterial handwash is also available for purchase online.
There are three types of heat rash, or miliaria:
Miliaria crystalline: This is the most common form. It causes small, clear or white bumps filled with sweat to form on the skin’s surface. The bumps measure 1–2 millimeters across. It causes no itching or pain and is more common in babies than adults.
Miliaria rubra: This type is more commonly known as prickly heat, and it causes larger bumps, inflammation, and a lack of sweat in the affected area. It occurs in deeper layers of skin and is more uncomfortable. If the bumps fill with pus, the medical name becomes miliaria pustulosa.
Miliaria profunda: This is the least common type of heat rash. It forms in the deepest layer of skin, and it can recur and become chronic. It causes relatively large, tough, flesh-colored bumps.
Heat rash, or miliaria, happens when sweat gland ducts become blocked.
This may be due to:
- sweat glands still developing, as in newborns
- a hot and humid environment
- physical activity
- a fever
- wearing synthetic fabrics close to the skin
- wearing a nonporous bandage
- prolonged bed rest
- the use of some medications, especially those that reduce sweating
- radiation therapy
- some health conditions, such as toxic epidermal necrolysis
Heat rash usually disappears without treatment. However, see a healthcare provider if:
- the rash persists or becomes more severe
- there are signs of an infection, such as open blisters or pustular lesions
- there are signs of heat exhaustion and an inability to sweat
- there are other symptoms, such as a fever
Many illnesses cause rashes, which may look similar to heat rash. A doctor can determine the underlying cause.
Learn about the many other types of rash and their causes.
Heat rashes are not often dangerous, but if symptoms last longer than a few days or signs of an infection appear, see a healthcare provider.
They will examine the rash, possibly using dermoscopy for a closer inspection.
If necessary, they may also take a skin punch biopsy or use imaging technology to identify the cause of the rash.
Skin changes are a common symptom of many conditions. Heat rash can resemble other health issues, including:
- viral infections, such as chickenpox or measles
- bacterial infections, such as impetigo
- hives, due to an allergic reaction
- fungal skin infections, such as candidiasis
- insect bites
- folliculitis, due to a blockage in hair follicles
- acute HIV
- a response to HIV treatment
If any of the following symptoms occur, they may indicate that the cause of the rash is more serious:
- a fever
- a cough
- a runny nose
- fatigue
- enlarged lymph nodes
- muscle aches
To reduce the risk of prickly heat or heat rash, try to:
- Avoid activities or locations that increase sweating.
- If possible, use air conditioning or a fan.
- Wearing light clothing made from natural fibers, such as cotton.
- When possible, minimize exposure to hot and humid weather.
- Gently exfoliate the skin to remove dead skin cells and sebum that may clog the sweat glands.
- Take cool showers frequently and be sure to pat the skin completely dry.
Exfoliators are available online.
Heat rash is common, especially among babies and anyone in a hot, humid climate.
It usually goes away without treatment, although home remedies can help ease the rash and relieve any discomfort.
If heat rash seems to be involving deeper layers of skin, if there are signs of infection, such as blisters, or if it just lasts for more than a few days, seek medical attention.
Many health issues can cause rashes that resemble heat rash, so if a person has other symptoms, such as a fever, it is important to receive a diagnosis.
What a heat rash looks like | MStol.
ru
In summer, most of us look forward to
opportunities to spend more time outdoors, and dermatologists are gearing up
solve all those summertime skin health problems such as sun
burns and poison ivy.
Heat rash is another common
skin problem that worsens in summer. According to Dr. Lauren Snitzer of
U.S. companies Dermatology Partners in Sugar Land, Texas, “heat rash
can appear at any time of the year, but is more likely to occur in
warm wet months in summer. The good news is that with this disease, relatively
easy to handle even at home, and if you have a hard time with
heat rash, your dermatologist can help.” If you have a rash that
as you suspect may be thermal, you can learn more about how
identify and treat this condition, in our article or by contacting
dermatologist.
What is heat rash
Dr. Snitzer says: “The role of our skin
is to protect the body from allergens, irritants and
other sources of potential danger or damage from the outside world.
It also plays an important role in regulating our temperature. sweat glands,
as the name suggests, they produce sweat, which is then excreted through the ducts
or skin pores. When sweat reaches the surface of our skin, the evaporation process
helps to cool down our body. Heat rash occurs when sweat ducts become blocked,
leading to inflammation, irritation, and possibly infection.”
Some types of heat rash are also called
prickly heat, and from a medical point of view – prickly heat. When sweat ducts
blocked, this prevents sweat from reaching the surface of the skin. Instead of
This sweat remains under the skin, causing a nasty rash. In fact, this leads
to four different types of rashes known as crystal prickly heat, red
prickly heat, pustular prickly heat and deep prickly heat.
Miliaria is a very common disease
skin among patients of any age, but it is especially common in
infants, children and the elderly. You are also at greater risk
heat rash if you live in a hot and humid climate. This
condition often cause:
Excessive exercise leading to
sweating.
Skin rubbing against each other
preventing evaporation of sweat.
Tight clothing that does not allow
moisture to evaporate.
Use of oily creams
lotions or cosmetics before sweating.
Wearing bandages or braces
sweaty skin.
Work in hot, humid and
enclosed spaces.
●
Some medicines (including
clonidine) may increase the risk of heat rash.
General symptoms
types of heat rash have a unique appearance and set of symptoms, and some
forms of prickly heat can be mistaken for other, more serious skin conditions.
diseases. By knowing what you are looking for, you will be more likely to identify correctly.
these conditions and take care of them.”
Crystal prickly heat – also called clear prickly heat
heat rash, this form of prickly heat causes a rash with clear or flesh-colored,
sweat-filled bumps on the top of the skin that can burst and
may not burst. This is usually the mildest form of heat rash. Symptoms
usually resolve within a few hours or days after development, and this is not
as painful or uncomfortable as in other forms of prickly heat. This is a type of thermal
rash, most often developing in children.
Miliaria Rubra – also called red
heat rash is the most common form of prickly heat. This form
most often called prickly heat because of the burning itching that accompanies the rash
Red. In addition, people with this condition may notice that they do not
sweat in the area affected by prickly heat. There may also be inflammation and pain. This
the type of prickly heat most commonly experienced by adults. Though it hurts more
than overt heat rash, people with prickly heat can usually treat it
condition at home.
Pustular prickly heat – also called white
or yellow heat rash, this condition causes pustules to form under the skin.
This condition results from the formation of ulcers or pustules during
red prickly heat. Pustules usually indicate an infection, and if left untreated, they may
be dangerous. The pustules can also be very painful. Most
cases for the treatment of this form of heat rash, patients are advised to contact
to a dermatologist.
Deep prickly heat is a condition also
known as deep heat rash, occurs most often in people who have
chronic or frequent exacerbations of heat rash develop. Inflammation,
irritation and infection associated with chronic outbreaks of heat rash,
damage the deeper layers of the skin. This may appear as larger
firm, flesh-colored bumps on skin exposed to heat.
Most often it is caused by excessive exercise. Because sweating
prevented, people can overheat, which can cause nausea and
dizziness. It is usually recommended to consult a dermatologist for
solutions to this condition.
How best to treat
Dr. Snitzer says:
cases of heat rash go away on its own or after home care, there are
certain circumstances that may require professional
intervention. Particularly if the rash is so painful that it prevents you from
sleeping or doing normal daily activities, your skin does not clear up within
several days, you notice signs of infection in the affected area, you have a fever
or a skin infection disease, or you suspect that your heat rash is on
may actually be an allergic reaction to medications or other foods.”
In most cases, prickly heat goes away on its own.
yourself if you keep your skin cool and dry by limiting physical activity and
staying in a cool and dry place. You may also need to take
some steps to treat symptoms at home using
over-the-counter products such as hydrocortisone cream or lotion
calamine to relieve itching. Aloe vera lotions and other remedies
sunburns are also helpful in reducing inflammation, burning and irritation
skin. Be careful when using topical agents, as they
can further clog pores, preventing sweating and making the condition
more painful and difficult. Cool shower or warm colloidal bath
oatmeal can also reduce discomfort.
If prickly heat becomes infected, you will need to
seek treatment from a dermatologist. This may include oral or
local antibiotics. Also, if you are suffering from a very painful
heat rash that gets worse over time instead of getting better, your
The dermatologist may also prescribe pain medication.
Can I prevent heat rash?
It is always a good idea to take steps to prevent
skin health problems before they start. Heat rash is usually easy
avoid as it occurs when pores cause clogged sweat
ducts. Simply avoiding this obstacle should prevent thermal
rash. Here are a few steps you can take to help prevent heat
rash:
Avoid excessive
sweating, especially in hot or humid environments.
Wear clothes that breathe or
wicks moisture away from the skin.
Make sure the skin
stay dry, especially in places where sweat can accumulate, such as in
skin folds, armpits, elbows and knees.
If possible, use
air conditioner or fans to keep cool
●
During training, do frequent
breaks to cool the skin and towel dry.
Drink plenty of water in warm summer
months to avoid dehydration.
Avoid using thick
lotions or cosmetics that increase the likelihood of clogged pores.
Shower frequently to
keep the skin clear and reduce the risk of clogged pores.
Use light soft
cleansers that do not contain dyes, fragrances and other aggressive
chemicals.
causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment
- Main
- Services
- Allergist-immunologist
Skin rash is the most common form of an allergic reaction. Dermatitis can occur under the influence of external or internal factors. Typically, these pathologies are chronic with periodic relapses. But unlike classical eczema, allergic skin lesions disappear without a trace after the cause is eliminated, that is, the irritant is neutralized.
Diagnosis of this group of diseases is complicated by the fact that it is not always possible to establish a connection with a specific allergen. In principle, it is this factor that contributes to the transition of pathology into a chronic form. Therefore, timely diagnosis is important, as well as early initiation of therapy.
Clinic “Edkar” in Kaliningrad guarantees all patients a high quality of medical services. We have an experienced allergist-immunologist who will determine the cause of the skin pathology and prescribe an adequate treatment.
Allergic dermatitis: classification, causes and symptoms
Dermatitis caused by contact with an allergen is divided into the following types:
- Contact. The most common type of disease that develops under the influence of exo allergens: certain food ingredients, pollen, insect bites.
- Toxidermia develops after parenteral administration of haptens into the body. Due to systemic skin lesions, the process is accompanied by pronounced changes.
- Atonic dermatitis of an allergic nature is a combination of a respiratory disease with a skin lesion.
All of the listed forms of skin allergy can manifest themselves in a single variant or in combination.
Causes
In the list of main provoking factors:
- genetic predisposition;
- endocrine pathologies;
- chronic diseases of internal organs;
- taking certain medications;
- unfavorable working conditions.
Important: from potentially hazardous industries, the metallurgical industry, woodworking, and the food industry should be singled out.
Symptoms
- Contact dermatitis affects the area that has been exposed to an allergic agent. A papular rash appears. The severity of skin manifestations depends on the concentration of the agent.
- Toxicodermia is characterized by polymorphism, that is, various elements. Against the background of extensive rashes, the temperature often rises, general well-being worsens, appetite disappears.
- Atonic dermatitis occurs in a chronic form. Differs in symmetry of rashes.
- Atopic dermatitis also belongs to this group of diseases. The peculiarity of the pathology is that it is a chronic inflammatory process with frequent relapses. Eczematous rashes on the skin are accompanied by a painful tooth, causing significant discomfort to the patient and reducing the quality of life. This form of dermatosis in clinical practice is often combined with food allergies, conjunctivitis or bronchial asthma. Such an alliance complicates not only the course of the disease, but also diagnosis.
Note! Often there is a transformation of one type of dermatitis into another. For example, when working in some industries, first a simple contact dermatitis is formed, and then the disease passes into a toxic-allergic form with polysystemic symptoms.
Allergic urticaria
This form of skin reaction is characterized by a rash resembling nettle burns. Hence the name. Pathology often manifests itself acutely shortly after contact with a provoking factor. There is a misconception that urticaria occurs only in children. In fact, adults also suffer from this disease, although much less frequently.
Causes
Allergic urticaria also has a variety of forms. More common is reaginic, that is, the first type of hypersensitivity, when food components, drugs, and dust cause an immune response. In this case, the rash is one of the symptoms.
The second type of allergic urticaria is registered in patients with blood transfusion or after intravenous administration of medicinal solutions. Intolerance is expressed as an immunocomplex reaction.
But there are a number of factors that accompany the appearance of urticaria. These are:
- infectious diseases;
- psycho-emotional disorders;
- endocrine disorders;
- heredity.
Therefore, urticaria of unknown etiology requires careful diagnosis.
Types of urticaria
The main task of an allergist-immunologist in Kaliningrad is to differentiate urticaria from pseudo-allergy, in which immune mechanisms are not involved. There are many such states:
- Dermographic urticaria is caused by mechanical pressure on the skin, such as seams in clothing.
- Cold urticaria manifests itself when drinking refreshing drinks and under the influence of low temperatures on a local area of the body.
- The heat variety of pseudourticaria is extremely rare.
- Photoallergy (solar urticaria) is very common among people with hypersensitivity to histamine.
- Aquagenic type was added to the list of mechanical varieties recently. Under running water, mast cells of the skin are activated, and people with hypersensitivity develop rashes and itching.
There are also vibratory and pigmented urticaria. The latter variety refers to autoimmune conditions.
Symptoms
Despite the variety of forms, the clinical signs of allergic urticaria are rather uniform:
- redness first appears;
- itch joins almost immediately.
The process can be local, depending on the characteristics of the provoking factor, or cover the skin of the entire body. Usually the situation is safely resolved within a few days, but in severe cases, urticaria can develop into Quincke’s edema. Therefore, even with a single episode of an incomprehensible rash, it is necessary to consult an allergist-immunologist.
Diagnosis and treatment
Diagnosis of skin allergy is based on the examination of the patient and the results of laboratory tests. The doctor directs him to take general tests and determine the level of immunoglobulins. To establish the allergen, special tests are performed. Treatment is carried out in a complex with the mandatory inclusion of antihistamines.