Paediatrics, by video or in person
Heat Rash (Prickly Heat)
The signs, the danger signs that mean hospital now, and how to see a doctor by video from anywhere in Nigeria.
Signs to look for
Heat Rash (Prickly Heat)
- Tiny bumps or fluid-filled dots, often in clusters
- Prickling, stinging or itching
- Rash on the neck, chest, back, skin folds or under clothes
- Worse after sweating, sleeping wrapped up, or in a hot room
- A child who is otherwise well, feeding and playing normally
Published Mezo prices. Each links to what the price covers.
Heat rash, or prickly heat, happens when sweat is trapped under the skin. It appears as tiny red, pink or skin-coloured bumps that prickle or itch, usually on the neck, chest, back, armpits, nappy area and skin folds. It is very common in babies and young children in hot, humid weather, and in children who are overdressed or wrapped up. It is harmless and usually settles within a few days once the skin is kept cool and dry. Thick creams and heavy powders can block the sweat glands further.
Medically reviewed by Dr Debo Odulana, Founder and Chief Executive, Mezo. Last reviewed . This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Care is decided with you after an examination.
Symptoms
- Tiny bumps or fluid-filled dots, often in clusters
- Prickling, stinging or itching
- Rash on the neck, chest, back, skin folds or under clothes
- Worse after sweating, sleeping wrapped up, or in a hot room
- A child who is otherwise well, feeding and playing normally
When to See a Doctor
See a doctor if the rash does not improve after three or four days of keeping the child cool, the spots fill with pus or look infected, or the child seems unwell. Go to a hospital now if a rash comes with fever and the child is drowsy, floppy, or hard to wake, or if the spots do not fade when you press a clear glass against them, which can be a sign of a serious infection.
Treatment options
- Keeping the child cool: a fan, a cooler room, a lukewarm bath
- Loose, light cotton clothing and fewer layers at night
- Letting the skin air-dry rather than covering it with thick creams
- Calamine lotion for itching in older children
- Treating infected spots if they develop
What it costs on Mezo
Starting cash prices for the treatments used for this condition.
Common Questions
Should I use powder or shea butter on heat rash?
It is better not to. Heavy powders, oils and thick creams can block the sweat glands and make it worse. Cool, dry skin and light clothing are what clear it.
How do I know it is not something serious?
Heat rash appears where the child sweats, and the child is otherwise well. A rash with fever, a drowsy or unusually irritable child, or spots that do not fade under a pressed glass needs a doctor urgently.
Can adults get prickly heat?
Yes, especially in hot, humid weather or after heavy exercise. The same steps help: stay cool, wear loose cotton and let the skin dry.
Need Help?
A children's doctor on a video call, who tells you whether your child needs to be examined in person.
See a paediatrician by videoIf any of the danger signs on this page applies, go to the nearest hospital now instead.
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