Heat Rash Symptoms

Heat rash, most commonly known as prickly heat or miliaria, is a skin condition characterized by intense itching, and a prickly or sting-like feeling. Skin is a protective layer that prevents the damage of the tissues lying beneath it. It also plays a vital role in temperature regulation by sweating.

The skin is lined by many sweat glands, which release the sweat on the surface of the skin. This sweat evaporates from the surface of the skin, thereby leaving the skin cool. But, when the sweat glands get blocked, the sweat gets trapped within the skin, thereby irritating it.

The clothes that we wear, rubs against the skin, thereby causing friction and inflammation of the skin on neck, back, abdomen, upper chest, groin, armpits, etc. The most common symptom is the occurrence of tiny red rashes known as papules, due to which the skin around the rash appears red in color.

People staying in tropical or humid climates are more prone to this condition. Mostly, heat rash tends to disappear on its own; however, constant development of the heat rash can interfere with the body's self-heat-regulating mechanism which may lead to fever, and heat exhaustion.

The symptoms depend upon the type of heat rash. Following are the types of symptoms, on the basis of classification of heat rash.

Miliaria Rubra: The most common form of heat rash, miliaria rubra occurs when the sweat ducts located in the epidermis i.e., the outer layer of the skin get blocked. This results in a local inflammatory reaction which causes blister-like lesions and inflammation around it, that is typically red in color.

The symptom of this condition is an intense itch accompanied by anhidrosis, which is complete lack of sweating in the affected area. If the condition spreads to a larger area of the body, there are chances of experiencing heat exhaustion.

Miliaria Profunda: Miliaria profunda is a severe form of miliaria rubra, and affects the middle layer of the skin, i.e. dermis. It is also known as wildfire, as it has the tendency to spread very fast or occur repeatedly at the same place. The first symptoms become noticeable only after some form of physical exertion is experienced, that brings on sweating.

The rash appears as the body starts to sweat. The lesions are firm and large, resembling goose bumps, and are pink in color. If the rash continues to persist, symptoms like nausea, dizziness, and a rapid pulse are exhibited. As the rash has a tendency to spread, the risk of heat exhaustion is larger.

Miliaria Crystallina: Another common form of heat rash, miliaria crystallina is mild in nature and occurs in the form of very tiny, clear blisters, papules, and superficial vesicles with no inflammatory reaction. It occurs in the stratum corneum, i.e. the most superficial layer of skin.

When the sweat ducts get blocked, these lesions break open easily, but are not itchy or painful. It often goes and comes on its own, depending upon the humidity in the climate. Although, it is more common in newborns, this condition may affect adults also.

Treating of prickly heat is easy, and the best way is keep the skin cool. Wear light-colored cotton or linen clothes. The skin should be allowed to breathe, and not covered with too much clothing. Other remedies for include bathing with cool water and adding mint essential oil for some added freshness. Powder yourself liberally, and use only water-based light lotions. The rash mostly disappear on their own, however, if condition persists, it is best to consult a doctor.