Heat bumps on the skin typically develop after prolonged exposure to heat or humidity. The condition might be mild as a few small-sized bumps but can also develop into sore blisters on the skin. The heat bumps or heat rash occurs once the body becomes overheated and unable to properly cool itself.
Why do heat bumps develop?
It is important to note that heat bumps are due to clogged or blocked sweat ducts. Once the body temperature increases, the response of the body is to naturally cool itself by sweating. In case the skin is still moist from sweat for extended periods of time, the sweat can seep into the sweat ducts which cause them to become blocked and inflamed.
Usual sites where heat bumps form
The bumps can form on any part of the body. Some of the typical spots where they develop include areas where skin-to-skin contact is continuous such as under the breasts or areas where the flow of air is limited such as the groin.
Other parts of the body where heat bumps can develop include the chest and the skin folds in the neck.
Management of heat bumps
If an individual ends up with heat bumps, it is vital to keep the skin as dry as possible to prevent the rash from worsening or become infected. Try to avoid any friction on the skin that can occur while wearing constricting or tight-fitting clothes.
In case the rash develops in an area where the flow of air is minimal, you can utilize baby powder to absorb the excess moisture. If heat could not be avoided due to work or other circumstances, the individual should take frequent breaks and allow the body to cool down. If the heat bumps appear blistery, do not break them open since it increases the risk for infection.
Who are at risk?
Individuals at risk for heat bumps include those who work in warm environments such as firefighters and construction workers. In addition, those who have weak bodies such as infants, children and the elderly face a higher risk for developing heat bumps and other heat-related illnesses.
What are the other causes?
Warm weather is not the only factor that can cause overheating that result to the formation of the bumps. During cold conditions, many have the tendency to use layers of clothes to stay warm, but this only increases the sweating and reduces the flow of air to the skin. As for the body temperature that increases due to fever, it can also cause a heat rash which is an attempt of the body to cool itself by sweating.