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Prickly heat rash

Prickly heat rash

Picture of prickly heat rash

Illustration copyright 2000 by Nucleus Communications, Inc. All rights reserved. http://www.nucleusinc.com

Prickly heat (also called heat rash, sweat rash, or miliaria) is a rash of red or pink dots that appears over an infant's head, neck, and shoulders. The dots look like tiny pimples. The rash from prickly heat usually covers a small area and is considered a localized rash. Occasionally the rash will cover a larger area (generalized rash).

Prickly heat is often caused when well-meaning parents dress their baby too warmly, but it can happen to any baby in very hot weather. A baby should be dressed as lightly as an adult who is resting. Your baby's hands and feet may feel cool to the touch. This is not uncommon and is usually not a problem.

Credits

Primary Medical ReviewerMichael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics
Specialist Medical ReviewerAlexander H. Murray, MD, FRCPC - Dermatology
Last UpdatedAugust 1, 2008

    Last Updated: August 1, 2008
Medical Review: Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics
Alexander H. Murray, MD, FRCPC - Dermatology

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