How to relieve itching from prickly heat in children

Written by Zeng Hai Jiang
Pediatrics
Updated on January 02, 2025
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Heat rash in children is primarily caused by blockages in the sweat ducts, due to the poor development of neonatal sweat ducts, a humid and hot external environment, and prolonged bed rest. Based on the appearance of the heat rash, it can be categorized into white heat rash, red heat rash, pustular heat rash, and deep heat rash. Red heat rash can feel itchy and burning; pustular heat rash can cause burning, itching, and pain; white and deep heat rash do not typically present noticeable symptoms. When a child's heat rash feels itchy, topical medications can be applied for relief. Local cold compresses or ice packs can also be used to alleviate itchiness and pain. Naturally, providing a cooler environment for the child is beneficial, including frequent baths to help clear the sweat ducts.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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What's causing the prickly heat pain?

Firstly, prickly heat is divided into several types, including white prickly heat, red prickly heat, and purulent prickly heat. The symptoms of pain often occur during red prickly heat, as it is a type of acute skin disease. Combined with hot weather, it easily leads to pain in red prickly heat on the body. Especially when an infection is triggered, the pain becomes even more pronounced. At this time, it is recommended to use some cooling powders externally to alleviate the pain caused by red prickly heat.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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The difference between prickly heat and allergies

Prickly heat and allergies are two different diseases, each with many significant distinctions. First, prickly heat tends to occur when the temperature is high, the weather is hot, and the body's resistance is low, while allergies are likely to occur when the skin reacts to certain foods, weather conditions, or allergens, causing corresponding skin symptoms. The treatment for prickly heat primarily involves the use of cooling powders applied externally, while maintaining a cool environment and bathing frequently. Allergies, on the other hand, are mainly treated with oral antihistamines.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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Can prickly heat heal by itself?

Prickly heat, the disease, can heal on its own since it primarily results from excessive heat or blocked sweat, leading to the condition. Therefore, prickly heat can gradually heal itself if the temperature decreases, cooler weather prevails, or if one sweats less commonly. However, it is crucial to prevent infection, as if infection occurs, it is necessary to use some topical anti-inflammatory medications. Thus, prickly heat can heal on its own, but it is essential to prevent infection during this time.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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When does prickly heat itch?

Prickly heat commonly occurs when temperatures are high, the weather is hot, or when the skin's resistance is weak. One of the main symptoms of prickly heat is itching, particularly prevalent during excessively hot weather, especially when sweating occurs. The sweat soaking into the skin can lead to the appearance of symptoms such as papules and vesicles, which can be particularly itchy. It is advisable to manage these symptoms appropriately.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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How to eliminate prickly heat?

To eliminate prickly heat, it is necessary to pay attention to the following points: First, it is recommended to use air conditioning to cool down during summer, maintain indoor ventilation, and ensure smooth airflow. Second, it is advisable to add some medicinal ointments or solutions that help treat prickly heat to the bath water. Third, you can apply prickly heat powder or talcum powder on the affected areas to help keep the skin dry and clean. Of course, you can also apply a mild astringent ointment to the affected areas to achieve a therapeutic effect.