Know All About
PRICKLY HEAT
Definition:
A common skin disorder characterized by a non-inflammatory, itchy rash caused by obstructed ducts of sweat glands, occurring specially in summer, most common in infants.
Signs & Symptons
Clusters of vesicles (small, fluid-filled skin blisters which may come and go within a matter of hours) or red rash without vesicles in areas of heavy perspiration.
Causes
Obstruction of sweat-gland ducts for unknown reasons.
Risk Increases With
- Overweight child
- Hot, humid weather.
- Genetic factors, such as fair, sensitive skin.
Prevention
Stay indoors during hot, humid weather.
Diagnostic Measures
- Observation of symptoms.
- Medical history and physical exam by a doctor (severe cases only).
Possible Complications
Secondary skin infection.
Probable Outcomes
Usually curable with treatment. Recurrence is common.
TREATMENT
General Measures
- Give frequent cool showers.
- Apply lubricating ointment or cream to skin 6 or 7 times a day.
- Use cool-water soaks to relieve itching and hasten healing. Pat skin dry, and dust with cornstarch after and between soaks.
- Wear cotton socks and leather-soled footwear rather than shoes made of man-made materials.
- Expose the affected skin to air as much as possible.
- Don’t use binding materials.
- Change diapers on infants as soon as they are wet.
- Avoid sunburn once child has had prickly heat. The body’s inflammatory reaction to sunburn may trigger a new outbreak of prickly heat.
Medication
Your doctor may suggest non-prescription cream to apply 2 or 3 times a day.
Contact your Doctor
Prickly heat doesn’t improve in 10 days, despite home care.