The main symptom of prickly heat is an itchy rash that is made up of small, raised red spots.
The rash usually appears a few days after exposure to hot temperatures. Occasionally, the symptoms of prickly heat do not appear for several weeks or months.
Prickly heat rash
The prickly heat rash is made up of tiny spots or bumps that are surrounded by a patch of red skin. The spots sometimes look like tiny blisters and may cause:
- mild swelling
- itching
- a stinging or intense prickling sensation
The rash can affect any part of your body but it most commonly develops on your:
- face
- neck
- back
- chest
- thighs
However, it can also sometimes occur on your:
- tummy
- groin
- armpits
- hands
- feet
The symptoms of prickly heat are usually worse in areas that are covered by clothing. This is because clothing can make you sweat and sometimes causes friction (rubbing).
