In this Article

• What is hyperthermia?
• What causes hyperthermia and heat-related illnesses?
• Hot weather health emergencies
• Heat stroke
• Heat exhaustion
• Other heat-related health problems
• Heat cramps
• Heat rash
• Sunburn
• Hot weather tips
• Hyperthermia At A Glance
• Hyperthermia Glossary
• Hyperthermia Index

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.

What are the symptoms of heat rash?

Heat rash looks like a red cluster of pimples or small blisters. It is more likely to occur on the neck and upper chest, in the groin, under the breasts, and in elbow creases.

What is the treatment for heat rash?

The best treatment for heat rash is to provide a cooler, less humid environment. Keep the affected area dry. Dusting powder may be used to increase comfort, but avoid using ointments or creams because they keep the skin warm and moist and may make the condition worse.

Treating heat rash is simple and usually does not require medical assistance.

Sunburn

Sunburn should be avoided because it is damaging to the skin and can cause skin cancer. Although the discomfort is usually minor and healing often occurs in about a week, a more severe sunburn may require medical attention. Certain medications may increase the skin's susceptibility to reddening and burning from the sun. These drugs are called "photosensitizing agents." Check with your pharmacist or healthcare provider to assure medications you are currently taking are not at risk for exacerbating a sunburn.

What are the symptoms of sunburn?

The symptoms of sunburn are well known. The skin becomes red, painful, and abnormally warm after sun exposure. Blisters may also form if the sunburn is more severe. Consider consulting a doctor if the sunburn affects an infant under one year of age or if these symptoms are present:

• fever
  
  
• severe pain

What is the treatment for sunburn?

• Avoid repeated sun exposure.
  
  
• Apply cold compresses or immerse the sunburned area in cool water.
  
  
• Apply moisturizing lotion to affected areas. Do not use salve, butter, or ointment.
  
  
• Do not break blisters.

Suggested Reading by Our Doctors

• Rash - Learn about rash causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment. Common skin rashes include poison ivy, hives, shingles, eczema, contact dermatitis, ringworm, psoriasis and impetigo.
• Dehydration - Read about dehydration (definition: excessive water loss) in children, treatment, symptoms (thirst, dry mouth, dark urine) and causes (vomiting, diarrhea).
• Muscle Spasms - Read about muscle spasms, their causes, diagnosis, treatment and prevention. Symptoms and signs include acute pain at the site of the muscle contractions (twitches or fasciculations).

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