Heat rash typically develops as a uncomfortable consequence of spending too much time outdoors in hot and humid conditions. The rash, also called prickly heat or miliaria, results from blocked sweat glands. It is particularly common in infants, but adults can also develop the rash when conditions are favorable, MayoClinic.com reports. Wearing equipment such as shin guards can exacerbate the condition because sweat cannot easily evaporate from the skin.
Symptoms
Before treating the bothersome rash as heat rash, make sure that is what you are dealing with. Symptoms of heat rash tend to vary depending on the type of miliaria you develop. In mild cases, called miliaria crystallina, you will see small, clear blisters clustered on the affected skin, MayoClinic.com reports. Another type of heat rash, called miliaria rubra, causes red, itchy bumps that may feel prickly. Finally, the third type -- miliaria profunda -- typically develops in adults who have previously had miliaria rubra. This form of heat rash causes skin-colored lesions that look similar to goosebumps. You can also develop a fever and chills, and notice pus draining from the lesions.
Why It Develops
Heat rash develops when sweat and perspiration get trapped in the skin and sweat glands, causing blockages that lead to inflammation and irritation. When you wear shin guards, the sweat cannot easily evaporate and the skin stays wet and moist with perspiration. That's one reason why participating physical activities in hot and humid conditions increases your risk for heat rash.
Treatment
Heat rash often causes extreme itching and discomfort. In these cases, over-the-counter topical anti-itch products can help control the itching. Try a product such as calamine lotion, which you can slather on the affected skin for some relief, MayoClinic.com advises. In more severe cases, talk to your doctor about prescription steroid creams that can relieve itching. In some cases, you doctor may also recommend anhydrous lanolin, which can prevent sweat gland ducts from becoming blocked, worsening the condition.
Prevention
If you participate in activities such as soccer that require you to wear shin guards, you can try a few things to prevent heat rash. The best way to prevent the condition is to stay in cooler and less humid environments, the University of Michigan Health Service suggests. When that isn't possible, try applying a dusting powder to the affected skin to relieve the discomfort and help prevent the moisture buildup that contributes to the rash.
