Symptoms and Treatments for Miliaria

Miliaria or heat rash is a group of skin ailments that can occur when sweat glands become blocked during extensive heat exposure or overheating, usually from hot and humid environments that cause profuse sweating. People with miliaria often develop a rash, as well as itching and blistering. Even though miliaria isn’t life-threatening, it’s a good idea to have any rash checked by a doctor.

Papules

The most recognizable malaria symptom is papules, which are small red rashes that appear on the skin. They are often itchy and cause irritating. You may feel tempted to scratch your skin, but this will worsen symptoms. Even though papules can appear anywhere on the body, they mostly appear on the chest, elbows, and under the scrotum. It’s also possible to have papules in multiple areas of the body. If you wear tight-fitting clothes, you are more likely to develop papules; likewise, it’s important to air out covered parts of the body every once in a while to ensure that the pores of the skin stay free of sweat.

Folliculitis

Another possible indication of miliaria is folliculitis. This term refers to the blockage of hair follicles by foreign substances, leading to inflammation. Folliculitis may appear in any location with hair follicles. To identify folliculitis, look for pimple-like red bumps that contain a strand of hair in the center. You may also notice symptoms like discomfort, swelling, and pain. If you like to frequent spas or warm waters, you are more likely to develop folliculitis. Some of the areas you should look out for include the stomach and the arms. Antibiotics or creams can help to treat this condition.

Burning Sensation

A burning sensation can develop as a result of miliaria which some people have described as wildfire. Because this sensation can spread rapidly, it can cause concern for the affected individual. A burning sensation is the result of an obstruction of the sweat gland which leads to the gland secretion between the different layers of the skin. Even though this symptom spreads rapidly, it can also dissipate within a few hours, especially if the irritant is no longer active. To reduce the likelihood of developing a burning sensation in the skin, keep clear of hot and humid areas for extended periods of time.

Redness

There are some subtypes of miliaria, one of which is miliaria rubra, caused by sweat secretion in the lower levels of the skin. The most visible symptoms of miliaria rubra are redness or irritation. Some people develop lesions as well, and in most cases itching and irritation are present. Symptoms can be unusually severe if the sweat glands remain obstructed while producing sweat in a hot environment. Some people note a feeling of pins and needles which lasts until the obstruction ceases. Miliaria causes visible signs similar to those of polycythemia vera, a dangerous condition of the skin.

Blisters

Some people may notice blistering of the skin if they become affected by miliaria. Blisters affect cases of malaria characterized by a superficial obstruction of the sweat glands. In these cases, rashes are less likely to occur. Due to the proximity with the upper layers of the skin, blisters cause almost no symptoms and appear as small beads of water. However, in some rare cases, the appearance of blisters can cause specific complications, including itching and burning. Even if you don’t notice any worrying symptoms, it’s a good idea to receive an official diagnosis from your doctor.

Light Clothing

One of the best approaches for treating miliaria is to wear lighter clothing. This will help to significantly improve symptoms because the pressure from tight-fitting clothes no longer blocks the sweat glands. Also, the skin can “air out,” meaning that sweat no longer becomes trapped. Furthermore, to increase the effectiveness of this treatment, you can apply a soothing oil or lotion on the affected areas. However, you should be careful not to use substances which may cause further irritation or inflammation of the skin. In this regard, aloe vera is one of the best natural moisturizers.

Air Conditioning

It may come with a high price tag, but air conditioning is one of the best ways to treat miliaria quickly and efficiently. If you notice symptoms, go to the doctor to receive a diagnosis. Afterwards, you can take steps to reduce the extent and occurrence of symptoms. Here’s where air conditions steps in – it can help cool the skin and reduce the ailments associated with malaria, such as irritation and itchiness. Moreover, during periods of intense heat and humidity, you should avoid excess outdoor activity

Antibacterial Soap

To fight the painful symptoms of miliaria, you can use antibacterial soap, which has been shown to be potent in the fight against all kinds of bacteria. Besides antibacterial soap, you may also use itch-curing substances including calamine and menthol, as well as a range of other topical steroid creams. Even though this is an effective remedy, some people find that creams and lotions can cause further blockage of the sweat glands. This is especially true for oil-based treatments, which can irritate the sensitive layers of the skin. Some people have noticed positive effects after consuming vitamin A and C supplements.

Fluid Drainage

In some cases, fluid drainage may be the only viable treatment for miliaria. Due to the severity of certain conditions – especially those that cause pimple-like blisters filled with fluid to appear – fluid drainage can be crucial. Most patients perform in-office procedures, although in some cases it may also be performed at home. The most important precaution to take when it comes to fluid drainage is proper disinfection, which ensures that the condition will not spread. Needles or lancets are most often used to perform fluid drainage. Before resorting to fluid drainage, your doctor may opt for other less invasive treatments.

Heat Powder

Applying powder to the skin can be an effective and affordable treatment for many people, especially in lower-income tropical countries that don’t have access to more advanced treatment forms. Heat powder is usually made from talc, but other ingredients are also added including milk proteins and Triclosan. Together, these elements fight infection and help to keep the skin clear of bacteria and irritation. Even though heat powder can’t treat miliaria on its own, it can help to reduce the severity of symptoms such as irritation and itchiness. Don’t use talc powder if you notice a worsening of symptoms.