A – Z of Illnesses & Conditions

Heat Rash:  Heat rash is a skin irritation caused by excessive sweating during hot, humid weather. It can occur at any age but is most common in young children. Heat rash looks like a red cluster of pimples or small blisters. It is more likely to occur on the neck and upper chest, in the groin, under the breasts and in elbow creases.

Heat rash is prevalent in the summer months and particularly in humid climates. The condition usually is self-limited and resolves in a few days without treatment.

Although anyone can get prickly heat, you are more at risk of developing it if you're in a hot climate where you sweat more than usual. The condition is caused when the body's sweat glands become blocked. Excessive sweating can result in sweat becoming trapped beneath your skin. The trapped sweat causes skin irritation and the characteristic heat rash.

Prickly heat is common in babies and doesn't cause any serious harm. However, if you are concerned, your doctor will be able to confirm the cause of your baby's rash and give appropriate treatment.