Heat Rash

Heat rash (or prickly heat or miliaria) is common in babies but can also affect adults, especially in hot, humid weather. It occurs when your sweat ducts (commonly referred to as pores) become blocked and perspiration is trapped under your skin. Symptoms range from superficial blisters to deep, red lumps. Some forms of heat rash can be intensely itchy or cause a prickly feeling.

Heat rash usually goes away on its own. Severe forms of heat rash may need medical care, but the best way to relieve symptoms is to cool your skin and prevent sweating. Here are some tips.

• Avoid scratching.
• Apply over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream.
• Apply 100% aloe vera gel to the affected area about 1 hour before bed to help you sleep.
• Do not use greasy creams that may block the sweat glands.
• Try taking stinging nettle extract supplements: they are rich in quercetin, which is known to inhibit the release of histamine in the body, the chemical that causes rashes and itching. Plus they don't cause drowsiness and are safe for most people - except those taking diuretics.