Summer solution: How to prevent heat rashes

For 28-year-old Satish S, a resident of Mysuru, summer is all about taking multiple cold baths. As the temperature soars, he also carries around a portable fan to prevent heat rashes and to get relief from severe itching.

The software engineer says that he gets rashes on the neck and back of his body very often during summer. “Travelling during summers is almost impossible for me as I start to sweat a lot and the rashes get worse. I get annoyed with the severe itching and can’t enjoy the vacation.”

Are heat rashes common during summer?

Heat rashes are very common during summer, says Dr Praveen Bharadwaj, dermatologist, Manipal Hospital Whitefield, Bengaluru. “Rashes could be sweat rashes called prickly heat, allergic rashes due to clothing or even fungal infections,” he says.

Dr Bharadwaj says that heat rashes may get worse during travelling in summer not only causing discomfort but also leading to fungal infections. “Heat rashes on areas with friction or areas with blockage of sweat glands may get fungal infections. One needs to consult a doctor if the rashes seem to be getting worse.”

Being dehydrated is one of the common mistakes that people make while travelling during summer, says Dr Bharadwaj adding that people wearing tight synthetic clothing, and applying a lot of deodorant and cosmetic products, will worsen the heat rash. “Gentle skin care, proper hydration and soft cotton clothes may help in preventing the rashes during summer,” he says.

He suggests taking cool baths and showers before travel to keep the body cool.

Satish says that every time he steps out and returns home during summer, he takes a cold bath which helps a lot. “I ensure I stay in air-conditioned rooms during my vacation to keep my body cool,” he says.

Heat rash among children

Heat rash is a common occurrence among newborns. They emerge as small red rashes all over the body, points out Dr B K Vishwanath Bhat, pediatrician and MD of Radhakrishna Multispecialty Hospital, Bengaluru. “While it is self-limiting and usually disappears on its own, it can flare up during a hot bath. We recommend parents to use cotton clothes. Prickly heat powder can be used for symptomatic relief.”

Heat rash is a common skin condition that can be uncomfortable for children. However, by taking preventative measures, one can reduce the risk of developing heat rashes, says Dr Kanchan S Channawar, senior pediatrician and pediatric intensivist, Kamineni Hospitals, Hyderabad.

How to prevent heat rashes

Experts list the following four steps to prevent heat rashes:

Dress appropriately

“Choose lightweight, loose-fitting clothes that allow the skin to breathe. Cotton is an excellent choice as it is a breathable fabric that wicks moisture away from the skin,” says Dr Channawar.

Do not use synthetic clothes and dress optimally, says Dr Bhat.

Stay hydrated

Drinking plenty of water will prevent dehydration, says Dr Bharadwaj.

“Avoid sugary drinks and caffeine as they can dehydrate the body,” points out Dr Channawar.

Avoid overheating

Avoid exposure to high temperatures for extended periods, says Dr Channawar. “Take frequent breaks from outdoor activities, especially during the hottest parts of the day.”

Use air conditioning

Use air conditioning or a fan to keep the air circulating and cool, says Dr Channawar.

How to treat heat rashes

Dr Channawar says that if an adult or a child develops a heat rash, there are several things that one can do to provide relief and help the rash heal:

• Cool baths – A cool bath can soothe the skin and reduce itching. If you are uncomfortable with a cool bath, a bath using lukewarm water is also fine. Avoid hot water as it can aggravate the rash.
• Calamine lotion – Calamine lotion can help soothe itching and reduce redness. Apply it to the affected area as directed.
• Keep the skin dry – Keep the affected area dry to prevent further irritation. Use a towel to pat the skin dry instead of rubbing it.
• Avoid scratching – Scratching can worsen the rash and lead to infection. Encourage your child to resist the urge to scratch.
• Avoid ointments and creams – Avoid using ointments and creams that contain petroleum jelly, as they can trap heat and worsen the rash.

Most cases of heat rash can be treated at home, says Dr Channawar. However, in some cases, it may be necessary to see a doctor. “If the rash doesn’t improve after a few days, or if it becomes infected, seek medical attention. Signs of infection include increased pain, redness, swelling, and pus,” she said.

Takeaways

• Heat rashes are common during summer in adults as well as children.
• Heat rashes could lead to fungal infections as well.
• Wearing loose clothes, staying hydrated and avoiding too much exposure to the sun can help prevent heat rashes.