Heat Rash vs. Sunburn: What’s the Difference?

Summer can be an enjoyable time filled with outdoor fun with friends and family. From swimming to camping to just being outdoors, it’s natural to take advantage of the great weather and sunshine. Too much heat or sun exposure can become a problem, however, and result in conditions like heat rash or sunburn.

Let’s explore the difference between these two conditions and discuss when to get medical care.

Heat Rash and Sunburn: What Are They?

Let’s begin by breaking down the difference between a heat rash and a sunburn.

What Is Heat Rash?

Sometimes referred to as miliaria or prickly heat, heat rash is often associated with infants. It can also affect adults, though. A heat rash happens when sweat is trapped in the skin. Small bumps often result, and the rash may be itchy. A heat rash typically occurs in skin folds or areas where clothing brushes against the skin.

A sunburn results from prolonged sun exposure, though a tanning bed can also cause a sunburn. A sunburn can vary in severity, from mild to more serious. Though many may regard a sunburn as nothing to worry about, it is a burn and should be avoided and managed carefully if it happens.

Symptoms of Heat Rash

There are different types of heat rash, and symptoms vary accordingly. Some signs and symptoms of heat rash may include:

• Small, easily broken bumps containing clear fluid.
• Small, blister-like bumps accompanied by itching.
• Inflamed bumps that become filled with pus.
• Firm, itchy, or inflamed bumps that may break open (less common).

Symptoms of Sunburn

The symptoms of sunburn are a bit different and can include:

• Pink or reddened inflamed skin (may be harder to detect on brown or black skin).
• Skin that’s warm to the touch.
• Tender, itchy skin.
• Swelling.
• Fluid-filled blisters that may break open.
• Headache or fatigue.

Dehydration can accompany a sunburn, especially with prolonged heat exposure and inadequate fluid intake.

When To Visit Urgent Care

It may be hard to know when to seek medical care for a heat rash or a sunburn. Let’s explore symptoms and red flags to watch for as you decide.

If you or a loved one has a heat rash, the condition will usually resolve by getting out of the heat and allowing the skin to cool down. If the rash doesn’t resolve after a few days or appears to be worsening, seek medical treatment at urgent care.

In the event of a sunburn, get help for yourself or a loved one at urgent care if:

• Your sunburn is swollen.
• You develop large blisters.
• You notice blisters on sensitive areas like your hands, face, or genitals.
• You note pus or red streaks, possible signs of infection.
• You have a fever, another possible indicator of infection.
• You have eye pain or vision concerns.
• You experience vomiting.
• You notice confusion.
• You have cold skin.
• You become dizzy or faint.

If you are concerned about dehydration, seeking help at urgent care is a good idea. Dehydration symptoms can include:

• Very dry mouth.
• Significant thirst.
• Rapid heart rate.
• Dizziness.
• Fatigue.
• Sunken eyes.
• Dark urine.

How Urgent Care Can Treat Heat Rash or Sunburn

If you experience these symptoms of heat rash or sunburn or have concerns, don’t hesitate to seek help in urgent care. It may be difficult to determine the severity of your rash or burn, but a trained urgent care provider can help make that determination and start important treatment right away.

Preventing Skin Problems in Summer

To help avoid sunburn or heat rash, consider these practical tips:

• Wear loose, light clothing that helps wick moisture away from the skin.
• Limit physical activity or being outside for extended periods when it’s hot and humid.
• Take advantage of shade and go indoors frequently to cool down.
• Use sunscreen, umbrellas, and other protective measures to limit skin damage.
• Drink plenty of fluids.

Heat Rash vs. Sunburn: How State Urgent Care Can Help

When you visit State Urgent Care for a sunburn or heat rash, our caring team will assess your condition, discuss any pertinent health history, and perform a physical exam. Treatment for either condition may involve cooling the skin and avoiding further exposure to heat or sunlight during the healing process. Based on their diagnosis and your individual medical needs, ointments or other skin care treatments may be ordered.

In the event of severe blistering or infections, your provider can provide you with important wound care and other treatments to facilitate healing and recovery.

For prompt, exceptional care for heat rash, sunburn, and many other conditions or injuries, visit State Urgent Care in Starkville, MS.