The difference between eczema and prickly heat

Written by Huang Ling Juan
Dermatology
Updated on November 02, 2024
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Eczema and heat rash have clear differences, distinguished by their causes, affected areas, and symptoms.

The cause of heat rash is mainly due to blocked sweat pores, typically triggered by hot and humid environmental conditions; eczema, on the other hand, is usually caused by allergic factors such as food allergies, pollen, dust mites, animal fur, etc., and is also related to disorders of gastrointestinal function and indigestion.

The seasonal occurrence of the two conditions also differs. Heat rash usually occurs in the summer, while eczema can occur in any season and at any age.

The affected areas are also different. Heat rash typically appears on the chest, back, inside the elbows, neck, and forehead, whereas eczema can occur on any part of the body.

The clinical manifestations of the two are also different; heat rash involves inflammation of the sweat glands, with the skin turning red and a dense distribution of papules. Eczema, on the other hand, primarily features symmetrically distributed erythema and papules, and may also include exudation.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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Can prickly heat be treated with calamine?

Lugan Stone Cleanser is mainly used for acute pruritic dermatosis, such as urticaria, eczema, prickly heat, etc. Thus, it can be used for prickly heat. The method of use is topical application; shake well before use, apply an appropriate amount of Lugan Stone Cleanser to the affected area, and it can be applied two to three times a day. However, if there is a burning sensation or swelling at the site of application, discontinue use immediately, clean the area thoroughly, and consult a local physician if necessary. Additionally, to prevent the recurrence of prickly heat, it is important to keep the environment cool and ventilated, avoid outdoor activities under strong sunlight, frequently bathe in warm water and dry the skin properly, and maintain a light diet rich in vegetables and fruits while avoiding spicy, stimulating, and greasy foods.

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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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How to use prickly heat powder?

Use of prickly heat powder, with the following recommended methods: First, if it is used on babies, be careful not to let the baby get the prickly heat powder into their mouth or eyes. When applying the prickly heat powder, try to apply it to the buttocks, armpits, or the neck and back area. Second, when applying it to skin folds, try to spread it out evenly and not let it accumulate in one spot. Use only a small amount each time, just enough to cover with a thin layer. Third, after using the prickly heat powder, cover it properly to avoid getting it wet.

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Written by Qu Jing
Dermatology
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Are heat rash and prickly heat the same?

Heat rash, also known as miliaria, is actually what is referred to in medicine as herpes simplex. It is different from prickly heat. Herpes simplex is caused by a viral infection, specifically the herpes simplex virus. It is characterized by clusters of small blisters and often occurs at the junctions of skin and mucous membranes. It is self-limiting but tends to recur, especially when the immune system is weakened. On the other hand, prickly heat occurs in the hot summer months when high temperatures and humidity make sweat evacuation difficult, leading to narrow and blocked sweat ducts, which results in prickly heat. It is usually intensely itchy. Thus, it is advisable to avoid rapid changes in skin temperature, such as moving from sweating heavily to suddenly entering an air-conditioned environment. This can cause sweat glands to close while sweat is still being produced heavily, leading to prickly heat. Treatment for herpes simplex involves antiviral therapy, whereas treatment for prickly heat primarily involves cooling, inducing sweat, and astringent measures.

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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.