What Is a Heat Rash?
Heat rash is uncomfortable, however, it is usually harmless, and gets better on its own after a few days.
Heat rash symptoms
The symptoms of heat rash are:
· Small, raised spots
· An itchy, prickly feeling
· Mild swelling
The rash often looks red, but this may be less obvious on brown or black skin, and the symptoms of heat rash are often the same in adults and children.
Prickly heat can appear anywhere on the body and spread, but it is not contagious, so cannot be passed on to other people.
How you can treat or prevent heat rash yourself
The main thing to do is keep your skin cool so you do not sweat and irritate the rash.
To keep your skin cool
· Wear loose cotton clothing
· Use lightweight bedding
· Take cool baths or showers
· Drink plenty of fluid to avoid dehydration
To calm the itching or prickly feeling
· Apply something cold, such as a damp cloth or ice pack (wrapped in a tea towel) for up to 20 minutes
· Tap or pat the rash instead of scratching it
· Do not use perfumed shower gels or creams
Causes of heat rash
Heat rash is usually caused by excessive sweating.
Sweat glands get blocked and the trapped sweat leads to a rash developing a few days later.
Babies often get heat rash because they cannot control their temperature as well as adults and children can.
Heat rash treatment
See a GP if:
· The rash does not improve after a few days
· Your baby has a rash and you’re worried
Just call 0207 099 5555 now to book a private GP appointment at MyHealthcare Clinic in Fulham, Wandsworth, and Wimpole Street, Central London.