Prickly heat

An irritating skin rash that is associated with profuse sweating. The medical name is miliaria rubra. Multiple tiny, red, itchy spots cover the affected areas of skin and are accompanied by prickling sensations. The irritation tends to affect areas where sweat collects, such as the armpits. The cause is not fully known, but unevaporated sweat is an important factor. Sweat ducts become blocked with debris and leak sweat into the skin. Frequent cool showers and sponging of the affected areas relieve the itching.

 

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