What is Prickly Heat?

Prickly heat is an intensely irritating skin rash, which may develop in hot, humid weather. The condition may be just a minor nuisance or a severe disability. Infants and the obese are especially liable. It is known medically as miliaria rubra.

Symptoms include small red rashes, called papules, which may itch or more often cause an intense 'pins-and-needles' prickling sensation. These rashes may simultaneously occur at a number of areas on a sufferer's body, the most common including the face, neck, under the breasts and under the scrotum. Other areas include skin folds, areas of the body that may rub against clothing, such as the back, chest, and stomach, etc.