Monday, March 30, 2015

Prickly Heat


Summer is fast-approaching. The heat is coming once again. Feeling hot and sticky is bad enough. A visible sign of discomfort only makes it worse. Such is the case with prickly heat (also known as heat rash), identified by clusters of small blisters that itch and appear where you perspire the heaviest – armpits, neck, back, or creases in the elbows (but never the face).

Hot, humid weather, sensitive skin, and overweight all aggravate prickly heat. Here are some simple ways to find relief:

  • Wear lose, lightweight clothing.
  • Dust the affected area with cornstarch.
  • Take cool baths to reduce itching.
  • Avoid hot, humid environments and stay in air-conditioned surroundings, if possible.
The key to managing prickly heat is to avoid sweating by staying in a cool environment. The rash will disapper in a couple of days.


Used with permission from A Year of Health Hints by Don R Powell, PHD and the American Institute for Preventive Medicine, copyright 2010. www.healthylife.com

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