Heat Rash (skin irritation caused by heat) information on MedicineNet.com

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Heat Rash

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What happens to the body as a result of exposure to extreme heat?

People suffer heat-related illness when the body's temperature control system is overloaded. The body normally cools itself by sweating. But under some conditions, sweating just isn't enough. In such cases, a person's body temperature rises rapidly. Very high body temperatures may damage the brain or other vital organs. Several factors affect the body's ability to cool itself during extremely hot weather. When the humidity is high, sweat will not evaporate as quickly, preventing the body from releasing heat quickly. Other conditions that can limit the ability to regulate temperature include:

old age,
youth (age 0-4),
obesity,
fever,
dehydration,
heart disease,
mental illness,
poor circulation,
sunburn and prescription drug use and
alcohol use.

Who is at greatest risk for heat-related illness?

Those at greatest risk for heat-related illness include infants and children up to four years of age, people 65 years of age and older, people who are overweight, and people who are ill or on certain medications.

What is heat rash?

Heat rash is a skin irritation caused by excessive sweating during hot, humid weather. It can occur at any age but is most common in young children.

Next: What does heat rash look like? »

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