Definition:
Heat rash also called prickly heat or miliaria is a common condition in which areas of the skin itch intensely and often feel prickly or sting due to overheating. Heat rash is like tiny bumps surrounded by a zone of red skin.
Diagnosis:
As the bumps burst and sweat is released, you may feel the prickly, or stinging, sensation that gives this condition its common name.
Treatment:
In usual cases the rash of miliaria will resolve without intervention. Moreover, severe cases can last for a number of weeks and cause significant disability. General measures should be recommended to all patients, including moving to an air-conditioned environment if possible, avoiding sweat-provoking activities and occlusive clothing, and taking frequent cool showers.
Symptoms and Signs:
Heat rash occurs when the sweat gland ducts get plugged due to dead skin cells or bacteria such as Staphylococcus epidermidis, a common bacterium that occurs on the skin which is also associated with acne.
The trapped sweat leads to irritation, itching and to a rash of very small blisters, usually in a localized area of the skin.
Causes:
Heat rash begins with excessive perspiration, usually in a hot, humid environment. The perspiration damaged cells at the outer part of the skin, forming a barrier and trapping sweat beneath the skin, where it builds up, causing the characteristic bumps.
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