There are two types of heat rash; prickly heat and miliaria crystalline. Prickly heat is the most common of heat rashes. In this condition there is an inflammation and redness of the sweat duct and the individual will suffer from an itchy or burning sensation. The sore ducts resemble small reddish bumps and can typically be found in clusters generally occurring in areas where there are folds of skin as on the neck, in the armpits, and the groin.
As with prickly heat, there is a blockage of sweat ducts and rupturing in miliaria crystallina as well. In this condition the affected ducts are much nearer to the surface and there is no inflammation, instead tiny clear vesicles appear on the skin. This generally is not accompanied with any other symptoms like redness and it usually occurs on the upper chest, neck or head.
The most important thing to do when you suffer from a heat rash is to cool your body. Try to remain in air conditioned environment to get relief and allowing your body to cool down. You can also have a cold shower to soothe and relieve your skin. Swimming or soaking in a tub can also help cool down and relax. Cooling down your skin being the most important measure to combating the condition, ice packs are the most effective remedy. Fill a plastic bag with ice cubes and wrap it in a cloth. Apply the pack to the affected areas leaving it for around five or ten minutes each time. Do this every couple of hours. Baking soda and fine-ground oatmeal powder are both extremely effective and help provide relief from a heat rash. You could add a small amount of either to your bath water before soaking in it. Dusting some baking soda or an absorbent powder onto your skin can also help a lot.
answered by M W