prickly Heat
prickly Heat Causes
The condition occurs when some of the sweat ducts are blocked preventing perspiration from evaporating, causing the inflammation and rash. The cause of blocked sweat ducts is not specifically known, but some factors are considered to contribute to this condition such as immature sweat ducts, tropical climates, physical activity, certain fabrics, medications, bacteria, and other factors such as overheating.
prickly Heat Definition
Prickly heat is also known as heat rash or miliaria. It occurs when sweat sweat ducts are blocked and perspiration is trapped under the skin.
prickly Heat Diagnosis
Visual examination by a doctor can determine the problem.
prickly Heat Symptoms and Signs
Affected individuals may have superficial blisters or deep, red lumps, others may feel an intense itch or prick. The condition develops in skin folds of adults due to clothing friction while it usually appears on the head, neck, shoulders, chest and back, armpits, and groin in infants.
prickly Heat Treatment
The condition usually heals on its own. However, severe forms may need topical treatments such as calamine lotion to soothe itching, anhydrous lanolin to prevent duct blockage and stop new lesions from forming, topical steroids, and use of oral vitamin C supplements to relieve heat rash. However, cooling the skin and reducing or preventing it from sweating is the most effective way to relieve the symptoms.