Also known as heat rash, or miliaria, prickly heat is an itchy and red skin rash which often causes a stinging, or prickling, sensation. It often occurs when you sweat more than usual, which is usually due to a hot or humid climate.
Excessive sweating can cause your sweat glands to become blocked, which can trap sweat underneath your skin. This causes irritation and results in a red rash developing.
People who are overweight, or sweat easily, are more likely to get prickly heat. The rash can occur anywhere on your body, but most commonly affects the places which are covered by clothing.
Babies and children are more likely to be affected by prickly heat than adults because their sweat glands are underdeveloped.
Prickly heat is not a serious condition, and rarely requires any specific treatment. Most prickly heat rashes will heal within a few days.