Prickly heat generally occurs when the air temperature is too hot and humid. This condition often makes the sufferer uncomfortable due to the itching it causes. However, you don't need to worry, because there are various ways you can do to get rid of prickly heat.
prickly heat or miliaria umbra generally characterized by a rash or red spots on the skin and often itchy. This condition can be experienced by anyone, but it is more common in babies because their sweat glands are not yet fully developed.
Prickly heat is also often experienced by people who routinely do physical activity or exercise a lot so they sweat a lot, for example athletes.
Causes of prickly heat
Prickly heat is caused by clogged sweat glands which results in a buildup of sweat in the skin layer. This condition is generally harmless and usually appears on the neck, back, face, chest, and groin area.
In addition, there are several things that can make a person more susceptible to prickly heat, including:
- Overweight
- A lot of lying down, for example when you have to undergo recovery when you are sick
- Sweat glands are not fully developed, for example in infants and children
- Clothes that are too thick and don't absorb sweat, especially if worn in hot weather
In certain cases, prickly heat can also occur in people who suffer from certain diseases, such as hyperhidrosis.
Treats and Prevents Prickly Heat
Although not dangerous, prickly heat can cause discomfort, especially in children, so that it can make children cranky.
Therefore, you can use a skin moisturizer that contains calamine or creams containing hydrocortisone to relieve prickly heat symptoms. Both are sold freely and you can get at pharmacies.
If prickly heat is very annoying or itchy, you can treat it by taking antihistamine tablets.
Meanwhile, to prevent prickly heat from reappearing, you can try the following steps:
- Clean yourself with an antiseptic or antibacterial soap.
- Apply a cream containing anhydrous lanolin to prevent clogging of sweat glands.
- Wear loose, breathable cotton clothing and avoid wearing clothes made of synthetic materials, such as nylon or polyester, which can trap heat.
- Keep your skin dry by taking regular showers or washing yourself with cold water.
With the simple treatment above, it is hoped that prickly heat will disappear in a few days. However, if prickly heat does not go away or there is an infection in the part of the skin that has prickly heat, immediately consult a doctor to get the right treatment.
