Spending some time out in the wilderness for a long walk during the summer can lead to the development of a red-colored heat rash on the calves. This heat rash often starts above the sock line with red-colored patches and splotches up to the calf. Take note that it does not usually itch and believed to be heat-related since it does not occur during cool weather.
What is golfer’s vasculitis?
Most cases of heat rash typically settle within a few days, usually before the individual is forced to schedule an appointment with a doctor. In a study conducted, this distinctive heat rash that occurs in the leg is called as golfer’s vasculitis.
Possible causes of leg heat rash
Based on studies conducted, it was discovered that many individuals had extensive allergy testing because they believed that they might be having a reaction to certain chemicals or plants.
On the other hand, it was simply an irritation of the blood vessels after extended exposure to the heat such as walking or hiking for long periods or playing golf.
The rash is quite common among individuals over 50 years old. Many individuals who engage in walking could not pinpoint anything new that they might have used to trigger a reaction. Since many individuals have the condition, it is not possible that they were in contact with the same irritant. Remember that the source is just the age of the individual and exposure to heat. Understandably, the blood vessels in the leg become irritated from the heat.
Prevention and treatment for leg heat rash
The heat rash can also occur among active, healthy individuals. Based on studies conducted, this is not a health concern and allergy testing is not recommended. Since the rash settles on its own after a few days, there are measures to perform after a long walk.
The individual can pamper himself/herself after a long walk by taking a cool bath, applying a cool towel over the rash or sitting with the feet propped up to help reduce any discomfort.
Other types of heat rashes
Prickly heat
Unlike with golfer’s vasculitis, prickly heat can cause itchiness. This rash is usually triggered by a blocked sweat gland and leads to the manifestation of elevated itchy, red-colored bumps or dots. The treatment usually involves avoiding further exposure to heat for a few days and avoid scratching the affected area.
Cholinergic urticaria
When it comes to cholinergic urticaria, the individual experiences the break out of tiny itchy hives that is accompanied by an elevated body temperature either due to a hot shower or exercise.
Itchy legs syndrome
In case the legs become itchy during or after exercises without any connection to heat, the individual might have exercise urticaria.
Poison ivy or sumac rash
The rash caused by poison ivy can manifest 1-3 days after exposure to poison ivy, poison sumac or poison oak among highly sensitive individuals. The rash is itchy, red-colored and bumpy which occurs at the area of contact, often creating a line where the plant rubbed on the skin. The rash can grow into blisters filled with fluid and can last from 1-3 weeks.