The UK is experiencing a severe heatwave, with a red weather warning for extreme heat in place. Temperatures are forecast to reach 37°C in London and large parts of southern England, with 35°C in the Midlands and south-east Wales. The Met Office and UK Government urge people to take action to stay safe, and some schools have closed.
Why Babies Are at Risk
Children and babies are particularly vulnerable in extreme heat, especially at night. Upper floors where bedrooms are located are typically warmer than ground floors, and opening windows offers little relief. Parents may notice lethargy, grumpiness, or heat rash in their children. If you suspect a more serious condition, contact a doctor.
Symptoms of Heat Rash in Babies
The NHS states that heat rash is "usually harmless" and "usually gets better on its own after a few days." Symptoms are the same for all ages and include:
- Small, raised spots
- An itchy, burning, or prickly feeling
- Mild swelling
What Does Heat Rash Look Like?
Heat rash appears as very small bumps, similar to pimples, each about 1 to 3 millimetres wide. On light-coloured skin, they look red; on darker skin, they may appear grey or white. This common form is called "miliaria rubra." The Cleveland Clinic notes that heat rash can also appear as tiny, clear bumps resembling water droplets, known as "miliaria crystalline," which typically affects newborns and may not cause itchiness.
Where Do Heat Rashes Form?
Heat rash can occur anywhere on the body. In babies, it is common in:
- Armpits
- Elbow creases
- Neck
- Groin (diaper area)
- Upper chest and back
In adults, it commonly forms on the arms, back, chest (especially under breasts), and legs (inner thighs).
How to Treat Heat Rash
The NHS advises that heat rash usually resolves on its own within a few days. The key is to keep the skin cool to avoid sweating and irritation. Recommendations include:
- Wearing loose-fitting cotton clothing
- Using lightweight bedding
- Taking cooler baths
To calm the rash and prickly feeling, apply something cold, such as a damp towel or ice pack. A pharmacist may recommend lotion, antihistamine tablets, or hydrocortisone cream (rarely given to younger children).
Other Rashes in Babies and Children
Check if the rash might be one of the following conditions (see NHS website for images):
- Slapped cheek syndrome
- Hand, foot and mouth disease
- Scarlet fever
- Measles
- Eczema
- Ringworm
- Chicken pox
- Impetigo
When to Call a Doctor
The NHS advises calling 999 or going to A&E immediately if your child has a rash and is unwell with any of these symptoms:
- Stiff neck
- Bothered by light
- Confusion, agitation, or unusual behaviour
- Difficulty breathing, breathlessness, or rapid breathing
- Skin, lips, or tongue appearing pale, blue, grey, or blotchy
- Sudden swelling of lips, mouth, throat, or tongue
- Tight throat or trouble swallowing
- Rash that looks like small bruises or bleeding under the skin and does not fade when pressed with a glass
