Heat rash can occur to anyone

DALLAS, July 7 (UPI) -- Rising temperatures and humidity across the United States can cause heat rash but a skin expert says there are ways to relieve the problem.

Dr. Amit Pandya, a professor of dermatology at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas, says the little red bumps of heat rash -- also known as prickly heat -- are more often found on the elderly, who often have trouble cooling off, and on babies but they can happen to anyone at any age.

Heat rash occurs when sweat glands clog and sweat becomes trapped beneath the skin. Patches usually appear on the neck, upper chest or where skin folds touch.

"Heat rashes aren't serious, but they can be annoying," Pandya says in a statement.

Pandya advises that:

-- The rash should start to fade as one moves to a cooler environment and the affected area is exposed to more air.

-- Clothing around the affected area should be loosened or the area affected washed with a cold cloth, and then allowed to air dry.

-- Help avoid heat rash by drying the area well after a shower and using a skin powder.