Heat rash also called prickly heat or miliaria, is a common condition in which areas of the skin feel prickly or sting due to overheating. It can itch a lot, but it’s not dangerous.
It looks like tiny bumps surrounded by red skin. It usually happens on clothed parts of the body, such as your back, abdomen, neck, upper chest, groin, or armpits. And it usually gets better once your skin cools off.
Heat rash happens most often in hot, humid conditions. It’s most common in infants. Active people, newborns in incubators, and people on bed rest with fever also are more likely to get it.
Treatment and Prevention
- Move to a cooler, less humid place.
- Don’t scratch your skin, or it could become infected.
- Keep the affected area dry.
- Don’t use ointments or creams that keep your skin moist.
- You can put powder on the rash to feel more comfortable.
- Use a fan.
- Wear clothes that aren’t tight and don’t trap heat and moisture.
