Understanding Heat Rash in Children: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Heat rash in children, also known as miliaria, appears as small red spots that can cause itching on the skin. Heat rash occurs when the weather is excessively hot and humid, especially when wearing thick clothing.

Heat rash will usually heal on its own without treatment. However, severe forms of the condition may require further treatment. If parents notice that their child is experiencing heat rash, they can remove or loosen their clothing and move them to a cooler place.

Individuals at risk of experiencing heat rash symptoms include infants and children under 4 years old, individuals working under direct sunlight exposure, patients who have difficulty moving, and individuals who are obese.

Babies are more prone to getting heat rash because they have more skin folds, leading to sweat ducts becoming trapped between these folds.

Heat rash

WHAT IS HEAT RASH IN CHILDREN?

Heat rash in children can appear on the neck, face, back of the abdomen, genital area, under the chest, elbow folds, and waist.

• Clear (miliaria crystalline): small bubbles containing clear fluid that easily break This type of heat rash is the mildest type that affects the sweat ducts on the surface of the human skin.
• White/yellow (miliaria pustulosa): inflammation of small bubbles containing fluid
• Red (miliaria rubra): red spots and itching that feels pricking in the skin
• Deep (miliaria profunda): Hard and red bumps

HEAT RASH IN CHILDREN

HOW TO TREAT HEAT RASH?

To ensure that sweat glands are not blocked, loose and thin clothing is suitable for children. In addition, some other tips include:

• Spend time in air-conditioned buildings or use good ventilation fans.
• Take frequent baths to cool the skin and use moisturizing soap.
• Do not rub your child’s body with a towel roughly, just “dab” their body
• Lotions like calamine lotion can soothe heat rash
• Avoid using creams containing petroleum as it will clog sweat ducts

Preventive measures are also important to avoid heat rash. In addition to wearing suitable clothing, individuals need to take additional measures such as avoiding excessive outdoor activities in very hot weather, and practicing adequate water intake to prevent dehydration. Additionally, wearing hats and using sunscreen with suitable SPF can help protect the skin from excessive UV radiation.

It is also important to recognize the difference between heat rash and other skin conditions such as eczema or dermatitis. Heat rash tends to improve on its own within a few days with reduced sweating and preventive measures, while more serious skin conditions may require specialized treatment by dermatologists.

Maintaining skin hygiene is also important to prevent heat rash. Regular bathing, especially after engaging in activities that cause excessive sweating, and gently drying the body with a clean towel are important steps in maintaining skin health. Avoiding the use of skin products containing ingredients that can irritate is also important.

When treating heat rash in babies or young children, it is important to take precautions to ensure their safety. Use soft clothing that does not contain allergenic materials, and make sure their skin is always dry and cool. If heat rash is severe or does not improve with home treatment, it is important to seek advice from a medical professional.

By taking appropriate measures, heat rash can be prevented and treated effectively. The importance of awareness of this condition and taking appropriate actions to reduce the risk and severity of heat rash are key to maintaining good skin health, especially in hot and humid weather.