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Miliaria (Heat Rash)

Sweat retention disorder from blocked eccrine ducts producing tiny vesicles or papules in heat exposed areas, particularly in infants and adults in hot humid environments.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Dermatoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Miliaria (Heat Rash)?

Miliaria is a common sweat retention disorder caused by obstruction of eccrine sweat ducts at various depths producing characteristic eruptions; subtypes are classified by the level of duct obstruction.

Miliaria crystallina (sudamina) — most superficial obstruction at stratum corneum producing 1-2 mm clear thin-walled vesicles without inflammation; common in newborns and febrile patients.

Miliaria rubra (prickly heat) — most common form with intra-epidermal obstruction producing erythematous papules and vesicles with intense pruritus; miliaria profunda — deep dermal obstruction producing flesh-colored papules with anhidrosis risk.

Symptoms

Tiny clear vesicles (crystallina) or red papules (rubra)
Itching or prickling sensation (rubra)
Distribution on trunk, neck, skin folds, axillae
Worse with sweating, heat, occlusive clothing
Anhidrosis with profunda variant
Common in infants on swaddled trunk
Discomfort with hot exercise or fever

Risk Factors

Hot humid climate and excessive sweating
Infancy with immature eccrine ducts
Fever and febrile illness
Occlusive clothing and bandages
Bedridden state and immobility
Strenuous exercise in heat
Tropical or subtropical environments

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Persistent rash despite cooling measures
  • Signs of secondary infection (pus, increased warmth)
  • Extensive involvement causing distress
  • Anhidrosis from miliaria profunda
  • Failure to thrive in infants with extensive rash
  • Diagnostic uncertainty
  • Heat exhaustion symptoms with anhidrosis

Treatment Methods

01
Cooling — air conditioning, fans, cool baths or showers
02
Loose breathable cotton clothing
03
Avoidance of triggering hot humid environments
04
Calamine lotion or topical low-potency corticosteroid (rubra)
05
Topical antibiotics if secondary infection
06
Hydration and reduction of sweat-inducing activities
07
Antihistamines for severe pruritus

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Dermatoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Let us help you

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.