What condition is described by red, raised rash with prickling sweat that can be prevented by toweling off sweat?

• A. Heat Cramps
• B. Heat Rash (Prickly Heat)
• C. Exertional Heat Exhaustion
• D. Exertional Heatstroke

Answer: (B)

Heat rash occurs when sweat ducts become blocked in hot, humid conditions, causing a red, raised rash and a prickling or stinging sensation as sweat gets trapped. Toweling off sweat and keeping the skin dry helps prevent the ducts from becoming clogged and reduces irritation, which is exactly what the description notes. In contrast, heat cramps are painful muscle spasms from dehydration and electrolyte loss; exertional heat exhaustion involves fatigue, dizziness, nausea, and heavy sweating with dehydration; exertional heatstroke is a life-threatening rise in body temperature with altered mental status. The described red, raised rash with a prickly feel that improves with drying sweat is characteristic of heat rash (prickly heat).