Heat rashes or prickly heat as it is commonly known as is one of the most common heat related problem experienced in hot tropical climates. The general belief is that heat rashes are caused due to excessive sweating, while in truth this is not the case. Most cases of normal heat rashes occur due to a blockage in the sweat glands. When any activity that induces sweat is performed, the blockage prevents the sweat from exiting through the pores, and the pressure ultimately results in the sweat leaking into the tissue surrounding the pore. This results in a local inflammation, resulting in the typical red rash as well as the prickly sensation that comes along with a heat rash. The blockage can be caused either due to an accumulation of dead skin cells or due to bacterial infection. In very small children, heat rashes may occur as a result of undeveloped sweat glands.
Heat rashes are not very dangerous, and although they cause a lot of discomfort, they do not cause any long term damage or scarring. In very rare cases, when the blockage is deep within the sweat gland, the sweat may escape into the tissue layer under the skin, causing a severe reaction, which will need medical intervention. Most cases of prickly heat, however, are the normal ones and are not a cause for worry.
The only problem with heat rashes is that if an infection sets in, it may be difficult to eliminate the infection entirely. This will result in frequent bouts of rashes which are very discomforting.
Heat Rashes in Summer: Heat rashes invariably occur in summer in most parts of the tropical world. Generally, this does not require any medical intervention and treatment is in the form of home remedies. They include:
It may not always be possible to live in an air-conditioned environment, especially during summer. Make sure that you drink a lot of water to promote sweating. The sweating itself will keep the pores open, preventing a blockage, and as long as you wash it off, there is very small likelihood of an infection.
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