Prickly heat (heat rash)

Prickly heat (also called heat rash, sweat rash, or miliaria) is a rash of red or pink dots found on body areas covered by clothing. The rash is caused by blocked sweat ducts that swell, which may cause discomfort and itching.

In young children, prickly heat can look like tiny pimples on the head, neck, and shoulders. The rash areas can get irritated by clothing or scratching. When a rash is present, it is important to watch for signs of a skin infection.

Prickly heat can be caused by well-meaning parents who dress their baby too warmly, but it can happen to any baby in very hot weather. A baby should be dressed as an adult would be in order to be comfortable at the same temperature and activity level. Babies' hands and feet may feel cool to your touch because most of their blood is near the stomach, helping digestion, but that does not mean they need to be dressed too warmly in hot weather.

Most prickly heat rashes heal without problems wit the use of home treatment. Use home treatment to prevent and treat the rash:

• Dress your child in as few clothes as possible during hot weather.
• Keep the skin cool and dry.
• Keep the sleeping area cool.