What should you know about heat rash in elderly?

Older skin may be more fragile, and reduced mobility, incontinence, fever, heavy bedding, or difficulty sensing heat can leave an area damp for longer. Small bumps, prickling, itching, or redness may occur on the back, chest, neck, or beneath folds. These findings fit [Heat Rash](/conditions/heat-rash/), but a rash can have other causes. New [Skin Bumps](/symptoms/skin-bumps/) or a changing [Skin Rash](/symptoms/skin-rash/) should not be self-diagnosed when the person is frail or unwell.

Cool the room, loosen clothing, change damp garments and bedding, and gently pat the skin dry. Help the person change position if safe, especially when a fold remains pressed together. Use mild, fragrance-free cleansing and avoid rubbing. A clinician or pharmacist can advise whether [Emollient Therapy](/treatments/medical-dermatology/emollient-therapy/) is appropriate; thick products can worsen moisture in some folds. Do not use a steroid cream without advice.

Get urgent help for confusion, fainting, breathing trouble, severe weakness, or a very high temperature that does not improve with cooling. Contact a clinician promptly for spreading [Skin Redness](/symptoms/skin-redness/), warmth, pain, swelling, pus, fever, broken skin, or a rash that persists despite keeping the area cool and dry. A clinician may recommend [Topical Corticosteroids](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-corticosteroids/) only when suitable for the diagnosis and body site.

Ask what is causing the rash, how to protect fragile skin, which cleanser or moisturiser fits the affected site, and whether medicines, reduced movement, fever, or incontinence are contributing.