Prickly heat rash, or miliaria, is an intense itching or stinging feeling on the skin and is common for children and infants during hot weather. A rash appears on parts of the child's body such as the back, buttocks, chest, groin, neck, stomach and creases of the skin where clothing can be tight. Prickly heat rash can also appear on the scalp or forehead if your child wears hats during excessive heat.
Expert Insight
Prickly heat rash often disappears within a few days, according to Skin Disease Archive. Baby Center advises that prickly heat rash is a sign that your baby is too warm and that overheating can also cause heat exhaustion and heat stroke. The website further recommends seeing a doctor if the prickly heat rash seems to worsen or if your baby develops a fever.
Causes
Excessive sweating can damage skin cells and trap them in the pores when children sweat, resulting in small red blisters. Staphylococcus bacteria can also lodge within the ducts of sweat glands and cause infection, according to Skin Disease Archive. The blisters release sweat when they burst, resulting in an itching or stinging feeling. Blisters can appear in several places on the body and are tender to the touch.
Treatment
Severe infections of prickly heat rash can last for several weeks, according to Skin Disease Archives. Children with prickly heat rash should avoid excessive sweating by staying in an environment that is cool and free of humidity. Baby Center advises to avoid using ointments and creams because they can trap moisture within the pores of your baby's skin. A doctor may prescribe a topical antibiotic to eliminate bacteria. Skin Disease Archives recommends using antibacterial soap when showering after the prickly heat rash disappears to prevent a relapse.
Prevention
Use an air conditioner or fan to create a cool environment within the home. Children should wear loose, lightweight clothing when playing outside during hot and humid weather. Baby Center cautions to avoid using diapers with a plastic lining. The website further recommends leaving a fan on in your baby's room to create a gentle breeze and prevent excessive sweating in hot weather.
First Aid
When you notice a prickly heat rash on your baby, Baby Center suggests that a cotton towel can help absorb some of the sweat as you place cool washcloths onto areas of your baby's skin that have prickly heat rash. Allow your baby to air dry because rubbing him with the towel can irritate the blisters of prickly heat rash. You can lightly dust your baby's skin with cornstarch to prevent excessive sweating in the creases of his skin. Baby Center suggests avoiding talcum powder because it can be dangerous for your baby to breathe.
