Overview
Miliaria, commonly known as heat rash or prickly heat, is a skin condition caused by blocked sweat ducts, leading to red, itchy, and sometimes prickly or blister-like bumps on the skin. It typically occurs in hot and humid conditions, especially during summer or in individuals who sweat excessively.
Miliaria is generally benign and self-limiting, but severe or recurrent cases can cause discomfort, secondary infection, and skin irritation. In Korea, treatment involves topical care, cooling measures, and preventive strategies to relieve symptoms and avoid recurrence.
Key Facts
➤ Miliaria occurs when sweat glands are blocked, preventing sweat from reaching the skin surface.
➤ There are different types of miliaria, depending on the depth of the blockage.
➤ Symptoms include red bumps, itching, stinging, or prickly sensations.
➤ Commonly affects infants, children, and adults exposed to heat and humidity.
➤ In Korea, treatments focus on cooling, topical therapy, and prevention strategies.
What is Miliaria?
Miliaria is a sweat retention disorder that results in skin inflammation due to blocked sweat ducts.
➔ Types of Miliaria:
- Miliaria crystallina – tiny, clear, fluid-filled blisters on the upper skin layer.
- Miliaria rubra (prickly heat) – red, itchy papules in deeper layers of the epidermis.
- Miliaria profunda – deeper, flesh-colored bumps due to chronic blockage.
Blocked sweat ducts cause sweat leakage into surrounding skin, triggering inflammation, itching, and irritation.
Symptoms Related to Miliaria
➤ Red or flesh-colored bumps on the skin.
➤ Prickling, stinging, or burning sensation.
➤ Itching or discomfort when sweating.
➤ Small, clear blisters in superficial forms.
➤ Often appears in skin folds or areas covered by clothing, like neck, back, chest, and groin.
➤ Mild cases may resolve spontaneously, while severe cases may cause secondary infection.
Causes / Possible Causes
Miliaria is primarily caused by obstruction of sweat ducts, often triggered by:
Environmental Causes
➤ Hot and humid weather.
➤ Overheating due to excessive clothing or blankets.
➤ Prolonged exposure to heat during exercise or work.
Physiological Causes
➤ Excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis).
➤ Immature sweat ducts in infants and newborns.
➤ Friction from tight or non-breathable clothing.
Medical and Systemic Factors
➤ Fever or illness causing increased sweating.
➤ Obesity, which increases skin folds and sweat retention.
➤ Use of medications that increase perspiration.
Risk Factors
➤ Infants and children with immature sweat glands.
➤ Adults in hot, humid climates or working in heat-intensive environments.
➤ Wearing tight, non-breathable clothing.
➤ Excessive sweating due to exercise, fever, or hyperhidrosis.
➤ Obesity increasing skin folds and sweat accumulation.
Complications
Though usually benign, miliaria can lead to:
➤ Persistent itching and discomfort, affecting sleep and daily activities.
➤ Secondary bacterial or fungal infections in affected areas.
➤ Skin irritation from scratching, causing redness or bleeding.
➤ Recurrent heat rash if exposure to high heat and humidity continues.
When Should I See My Doctor?
Seek medical attention if:
➤ Rash persists for more than a few days without improvement.
➤ There is pain, pus, or signs of infection in affected areas.
➤ Rash is accompanied by fever or systemic symptoms.
➤ Frequent recurrences impact daily life or comfort.
➤ Over-the-counter measures do not relieve itching or discomfort.
Care and Treatment
Lifestyle and Home Measures
➤ Keep skin cool and dry; avoid excessive heat exposure.
➤ Wear loose, breathable clothing to reduce friction.
➤ Take cool showers and gently pat skin dry.
➤ Avoid heavy creams or ointments that block sweat glands.
➤ Reduce physical activity temporarily in hot, humid environments.
Medical Treatments
➤ Topical calamine lotion or hydrocortisone creams to reduce itching.
➤ Antibacterial or antifungal creams if secondary infection occurs.
➤ Oral antihistamines for severe itching.
➤ In persistent cases, consultation with dermatologists for targeted therapy.
Preventive Measures
➤ Stay in cool, ventilated environments.
➤ Avoid overdressing or using heavy blankets in hot weather.
➤ Use moisture-wicking clothing during exercise.
➤ Maintain good personal hygiene and regular bathing.
➤ Monitor infants and children closely during heat exposure.
Treatment Options in Korea
Korean healthcare provides effective management of miliaria through:
Diagnostic Services
➤ Physical examination to determine rash type and severity.
➤ Screening for secondary infections if lesions are complicated.
➤ Assessment of underlying conditions contributing to excessive sweating.
Therapies and Supportive Care
➤ Topical medications and soothing lotions prescribed by dermatologists.
➤ Guidance on environmental and lifestyle modifications.
➤ Traditional Korean treatments such as herbal compresses or cooling therapies.
➤ Education on prevention strategies for infants, children, and adults.
➤ Multidisciplinary support combining dermatology, pediatrics, and preventive medicine.
✅ In summary: Miliaria (heat rash) is a common skin condition caused by blocked sweat ducts, resulting in red, itchy, and sometimes prickly bumps. While typically self-limiting, persistent or severe cases may require topical therapy, cooling measures, and preventive strategies. In Korea, patients benefit from advanced dermatological care, preventive education, and integrative approaches to relieve symptoms, prevent recurrence, and maintain skin health.
