Heat Rash |
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Also known as miliaria or prickly heat, heat rash is a skin condition which involves severe itching, pricking or stinging due to overheat. Heat rash appears to have tiny bumps surrounded by redness around the area. It is usually found on covered or clothed areas of the body like the back, abdomen, upper chest, neck, armpits, or groin. Aside from the skin condition it may produce, heat rash can also interfere with the heat-regulating device of the body. Thus, it results to fever and heat exhaustion. In extreme cases, heat rashes can also contribute to the death of a patient. From the term itself, heat rash can be acquired during hot and humid seasons. It may also be developed in cold weather if the individual is overly clothed or overdressed. Infants are the regular victims of heat rash. This is due to the incubators they are placed in. Bedridden patients are also at greater risk of acquiring heat rash because of the high temperature their fevers may give them.
Perspiration under hot and humid environment is the root of heat rash. When the cells of the skin are damaged by perspiration, it creates a barrier which traps the liquid thus forming bumps upon build up. As the condition prolongs, the bumps then break, releasing the sweat. This explains the stinging or prickly feeling characterized by heat rash.
Adequate cooling for the body is the main treatment for heat rash. As much as possible, excessive body heat should be released and not to be prolonged inside the body. Wearing of loose clothing will greatly contribute in preventing prickly heat rash. This allows the cool air or breeze to circulate around your body. Cool baths and proper air conditioning at night are helpful. Patients often use bath brush with soap to condition the skin. Medical attention should be called for severe cases so doctors can prescribe lotion with active ingredients which can alleviate discomforts of heat rashes.
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