What should I do if my baby has developed many heat rashes?
May 18, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wan
Introduction
For treating heat rash (miliaria) in infants, calamine lotion and Wuji ointment may be applied. Maintain good personal hygiene and avoid spicy or irritating foods as much as possible. I bathe my baby regularly and change clothes frequently. You may apply either a soothing powder for heat rash or an over-the-counter anti-rash medication. Heat rash in babies is typically caused by elevated body temperature and impaired skin cooling due to blocked sweat glands.
During summer, infants are prone to developing heat rash (miliaria). Due to the associated itching, babies may scratch excessively, leading to extensive skin damage. Therefore, prompt treatment is essential once heat rash appears. So, what should you do if your baby develops numerous heat rashes?
What to Do When Your Baby Develops Extensive Heat Rash
Topical treatments for infantile heat rash include calamine lotion and Wujigao (a traditional Chinese ointment). Maintain good personal hygiene and avoid spicy or irritating foods. I routinely bathe my baby and change their clothes frequently. You may apply over-the-counter heat-rash lotions or prescribed medications. Heat rash occurs when an infant’s body temperature rises excessively, impairing normal skin cleansing functions. Recently, pay close attention to indoor temperature and ensure thorough yet gentle cleansing of your baby’s skin—avoid overheating. Undergarments should be washed regularly to prevent skin irritation. If symptoms persist or worsen, consult a healthcare professional.
Heat rash manifests as itchy, slightly painful papulovesicular eruptions. It typically arises in hot, humid environments where excessive sweating overwhelms the skin’s ability to evaporate sweat, resulting in obstruction and subsequent rupture of the sweat ducts. This causes sweat to leak into surrounding tissues. In infants, heat rash presents as papulovesicles accompanied by pruritus and mild discomfort. Topical treatment with calamine lotion and Wujigao is recommended. Additionally, maintain rigorous personal hygiene and minimize intake of spicy or irritating foods. Regular bathing and frequent clothing changes are also advised.
If heat rash appears on the neck or scalp, trimming or shaving the baby’s hair may accelerate recovery. Otherwise, the condition could potentially worsen. Use air conditioning appropriately to maintain the baby’s environment at approximately 26°C (79°F). We hope this article has been helpful. Wishing you joy and good health!
