Heat rash and temperature: what should you know?

Warm weather, exercise, fever, heavy clothing, or skin-to-skin contact can increase sweating. If sweat ducts become blocked, tiny bumps and prickling may appear. Heat rash itself is a local skin reaction and does not explain every fever. A thermometer reading, chills, unusual tiredness, headache, dizziness, or nausea changes the picture. Learn more about [Heat Rash](/conditions/heat-rash/) and related [Skin Bumps](/symptoms/skin-bumps/).

Rest in a cool, ventilated place, remove extra layers, rinse gently, and let the skin dry fully. Sip fluids if you can, and avoid strenuous activity until you feel normal. Keep the affected area loose and dry rather than sealing it under thick products. [Emollient Therapy](/treatments/medical-dermatology/emollient-therapy/) may be considered for dryness after irritation, but it will not treat dangerous overheating.

Get emergency help for confusion, collapse, a seizure, severe weakness, trouble breathing, or inability to drink. Seek prompt medical care for a high or persistent fever, worsening headache, vomiting, faintness, or skin that becomes painful, swollen, or draining. A spreading [Skin Redness](/symptoms/skin-redness/) pattern may indicate another cause and should be examined.

Ask whether your temperature symptoms fit overheating, infection, or a medicine effect, and how to monitor yourself at home. Ask before applying [Topical Corticosteroids](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-corticosteroids/) when the diagnosis is uncertain or the skin is broken.