Prickly heat (also known as heat rash or miliaria) is an itchy, red skin rash that often causes a stinging or prickling sensation.
It usually occurs when you sweat more than usual, for example in a hot or humid climate, although it can also occur in winter (see Causes for more information).
Excessive sweating can cause your sweat glands to become blocked, which can trap sweat underneath your skin. This causes irritation and results in the rash.
The rash can occur anywhere on your body, but most commonly affects areas covered by clothing.
Who is affected
People who are overweight or sweat easily are more likely to get prickly heat.
Babies and children are also more prone to prickly heat than adults because their sweat glands are not fully developed.
Outlook
Prickly heat is not a serious condition and rarely requires any specific treatment. Most prickly heat rashes will heal within a few days.
