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Heat Rash in Children

Heat rash is a skin rash that develops when sweat becomes trapped under the skin. It often appears as small red or clear bumps in warm, covered areas.

Hot weather, humid conditions, overdressing and anything that blocks normal sweating can cause heat rash. Babies are especially prone because their sweat ducts are still developing.

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AAP Guide to Heat Rash in Children

The AAP guide below explains what heat rash looks like, what can help, and when a rash may be something else.

AAP Symptom CheckerHeat rash

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Symptom CheckerHeat rash New tab

When to see a doctor

Contact your pediatrician or another healthcare professional if:

  • The rash becomes painful, swollen or filled with pus.
  • The rash does not improve after your child cools down.
  • Your child develops fever or appears ill.
  • You are unsure whether the rash is caused by heat.

Call 911 or get emergency care if:

  • Your child becomes confused, collapses or has a seizure.
  • Your child is very hot and is not acting normally.
  • You think your child may have heatstroke or another life-threatening emergency.

Talk to a nurse now, at any hour

When can my child be seen

Be seen today.

Every office keeps same-day appointments for illness and injury.

This evening or at the weekend.

Most offices run After Hours Care, by appointment rather than walk-in.

If you are worried, call. We would rather answer a question that turns out to be nothing.

More on skin and rashes

See the rest of this group and all 164 symptoms