About Prickly Heat Rash

Prickly heat rash is an uncomfortable rash experienced by millions of people every year. The rash may be associated with a variety of activities although most commonly incurred by infants. However, adults to suffer with the rash and some individuals are more prone than others to recurring bouts of inflammation.

Significance

• Prickly heat rash is a disorder of the skin and may be experienced any where on the body. Symptoms include a red irritated area on the skin which appears as a series of red and raised bumps. The rash is the result of sweat glands which become obstructed and irritated. Prickly heat rash is not inflammatory or in other words does not involve injury or infection.

Time Frame

• Prickly heat rash is most common either during or just following activities which involve the skin becoming moist either from natural sweating or from external water sources. For example, athletes playing in hot and humid weather will frequently experience prickly heat on the inner thighs as a result of the constant contact of cloth or skin on skin. The rash may present itself anytime moisture and constant recurring contact is made with a localized area of skin.

Identification

• Prickly heat rash is easily identified by visual inspection and feed back from the patient. Appearing as raised red bumps, the rash will typically appear isolated and will have an oblong affected area. Although the bumps may first appear to be infected or inflamed hair follicles, the bumps are actually clogged sweat glands. Do not rub or additionally aggravate the rash site during examination. The patient will also most likely describe the feeling a s slight stinging or pricking feeling thus leading to the name prickly heat.

Effects

• The effects of prickly heat rash are most uncomfortable. The resulting discomfort of the rash may make immediate future participation in activities or athletics uncomfortable or even painful. The rash may also be of the severity to hinder sleep and rest which can increase the inability to physically and mentally deal with the discomfort.

Prevention/Solution

• Prickly heat can be prevented and at the very least, the effects may be lessened. For example, in the case of infants, something as simple as monitoring and changing wet diapers as soon as possible is essential. In regard to athletes, such measures as frequent showers, decreased activity during high humidity, and the application of skin lubricants and powders prior to and during activity may help or even prevent heat rash.

Expert Insight

• On its own, prickly heat rash will typically disappear on its own once the activity or cause of the rash is no longer present. Topical ointments are recommended especially those with antibiotic properties. Use of these ointments may help to lessen or prevent the onset of secondary infection caused by the rash. However, use caution and do not apply ointments with heavy oils which may further clog the glands. Once the rash has dissipated it will take the body time to repair the damaged sweat glands. Continue to monitor the area and apply topicals as needed. It is also advisable to shower using antibacterial soaps to aid in the rebuilding process and further prevent potential infection.