Heat Rash

Heat rash typically appears as small red bumps or tiny blisters in areas where you've been sweating, especially skin folds, under tight clothing, or where skin touches skin. It often feels prickly or itchy and develops after heat exposure or physical activity. However, many skin conditions look similar, including allergic reactions, fungal infections, eczema, and contact dermatitis. Our medical providers can examine your rash, review your recent activities and exposures, and provide an accurate diagnosis. This is especially important if you have fever, severe pain, or signs of infection, as these require different treatments.

No appointment is necessary. We welcome walk-ins daily from 8am to 8pm at both our Palm Beach Gardens and Stuart locations. Heat rash can be quite uncomfortable, and we understand you want relief quickly. Our medical providers can evaluate your condition and provide treatment options during a single visit.

Yes, when clinically appropriate, we can prescribe prescription-strength topical corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and itching, as well as antibiotics if secondary bacterial infection has developed. Over-the-counter treatments work for mild cases, but moderate to severe heat rash often responds better to prescription medications. Our medical providers will assess your specific situation and recommend the most effective treatment approach.

Recurrent heat rash often indicates ongoing exposure to triggering conditions without adequate prevention measures. In Florida's humid climate, this is particularly common. Contributing factors include wearing non-breathable fabrics, applying heavy lotions or sunscreens that block pores, inadequate cooling between activities, and certain medications that affect sweating. During your visit, we'll identify your specific triggers and create a personalized prevention plan. This may include recommendations for clothing choices, activity modifications, and skin care routines suited to our local climate.

Please bring your photo ID, insurance card if applicable, and a list of current medications including any topical products you've been using on the rash. If you've tried any treatments at home, let us know what you used and whether it helped. This information helps our medical providers understand your condition better and avoid recommending treatments that haven't worked for you.

Visit urgent care for typical heat rash symptoms, even if uncomfortable. Seek emergency care if you experience signs of severe heat illness such as confusion, loss of consciousness, rapid heartbeat, nausea and vomiting, body temperature above 103°F, or if you stop sweating despite being hot. Also seek emergency care if you develop signs of serious infection like rapidly spreading redness, severe pain, or feeling systemically ill with fever and chills.

Prevention strategies we recommend include wearing loose, lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing; taking frequent cooling breaks during outdoor activities; showering promptly after sweating; using lightweight, non-comedogenic sunscreens; staying well-hydrated; and spending time in air-conditioned environments when possible. Avoid heavy creams and ointments in hot weather, as these can trap heat and block sweat ducts. Our medical providers will create a personalized prevention plan based on your lifestyle, work environment, and activities.

No, heat rash itself is not contagious. It's caused by blocked sweat ducts, not by bacteria or viruses that spread between people. However, if secondary bacterial infection develops in the affected area, proper hygiene is important. Our medical providers can determine whether your rash shows signs of infection and provide appropriate treatment if needed.