Heat rash is from the common skin problems among children, especially in the summer season or in humid atmospheres. It appears in the form of small red spots or fine pimples, and is often concentrated in the neck, back, chest, diaper area, and under the armpits.
The main reason for it is the blockage of sweat ducts in children due to the incomplete growth of their sweat glands, which makes them more susceptible to this problem compared to adults. Understanding the reasons helps mothers deal with heat rash correctly and avoid its repetition.
Causes of excessive sweating in children
Children's bodies interact with heat faster than adults, and the glands often sweat easily even with a slight rise in temperature or during play. Because the sweat ducts in the child may not be fully grown or may get blocked easily by clothes or means that cover the skin.
Sweat collects inside the ducts instead of evaporating, causing a superficial inflammation that appears in the form of small red blisters that irritate the child and make him cry or rub the skin continuously. Taking care to cool and ventilate the child alleviates this symptom quickly.
High temperature and humidity are among the causes of heat rash
High temperature increases heat rash:
- Hot weather with high humidity prevents the evaporation of sweat, so the chance of blockage increases.
- In places saturated with humidity, the rash appears more than in dry places.
- Long direct exposure to the sun increases sweat production and increases the possibility of rash.
- Fluctuations in temperature (hot inside the house and cold air conditioning) may irritate the skin and increase sensitivity.
- During travel or being in closed transportation, the risk of heat and sweat accumulation increases.
Using heavy clothes for children leads to heat rash
Using unsuitable clothes increases the problem:
- Multi-layered clothes trap heat around the child's body and prevent the evaporation of sweat.
- Synthetic fabrics do not allow air to pass, so moisture is trapped.
- Tight clothes cause continuous friction that increases irritation and rash.
- Using thick blankets during sleep in hot weather exacerbates the problem.
- Choosing loose cotton fabrics improves ventilation and clearly reduces the rash.
Not changing the diaper for children for a long time increases heat rash
One of the most common causes of rash in infants is the diaper staying wet for long periods. The diaper traps urine and feces and absorbs heat, leading to continuous moisture and friction with the child's delicate skin.
This humid environment prepares for the growth of irritations, sometimes with secondary microbes, so clear redness and rash appear in the diaper area. Changing the diaper frequently, and using a suitable diaper and areas for ventilation, solves the problem quickly.
Heat rash increases with lack of ventilation
Poorly ventilated places increase heat rash:
- Sleeping in a closed room or with high temperature makes the body sweat during the night.
- Fans or air conditioners that do not distribute air well may leave hot and humid corners.
- Heavy furnishings (thick blankets, unsuitable mattress) retain heat.
- Opening a window or operating a fan on low helps evaporate sweat and reduces the rash.
- Monitoring the room temperature, especially for infants' rooms, reduces the problem.
Excessive movement of children in high temperature
Excessive movement for children increases the problem for them:
- Intense physical activity increases sweat production quickly.
- After long play outside, pimples or redness appear in the neck and back.
- The child's chest sweating with unsuitable clothes increases friction.
- Changing clothes after play and cleaning the skin gently alleviates the symptoms.
- Encouraging play in the shade or cooler times reduces the child's exposure to rash.
Sensitive skin is more exposed to heat rash
Ways to preserve the child's sensitive skin:
- The infant's skin is thinner and more sensitive to heat and friction.
- The presence of a family history of skin allergies or eczema increases susceptibility to rash.
- Any simple irritation may turn into a clear rash in children with sensitive skin.
- Using gentle detergents and products designated for children protects the skin.
- Monitoring any irritation and consulting a dermatologist if it continues or worsens.
Using unsuitable creams and oils
Unsuitable products increase heat rash as follows:
- Some heavy preparations block the pores of the child's skin.
- Scented oils may increase irritation and double the rash.
- It is better to use simple products designated for children's skin.
Article Summary
Heat rash in children is from the common problems in summer due to excessive sweat, hot weather, and heavy clothes. Also, the diaper, temperature of closed rooms, and excessive movement increase the chances of its appearance.
Sensitive skin and using unsuitable creams or oils may make the situation worse. Prevention relies on good ventilation, light cotton clothes, changing the diaper regularly, and not using preparations that block pores. With these steps, the rash can be reduced and the child's comfort ensured during the summer.