Tsakani – With spring around the corner and temperatures expected to rise, professional nurse Angel Madela has urged both parents and adults to take precautions against heat rash and other heat-related skin problems.

She explained that heat rash, also known as prickly heat, develops when excessive sweating blocks the sweat ducts, causing small red bumps, irritation, itching or a prickling sensation on the skin.

“It commonly occurs in areas such as the neck, chest, back, underarms and skin folds,” she said.

Madela said children can be particularly affected because they may spend several hours at school, where they can become hot and sweaty during lessons, breaks and physical activities.

She encouraged parents to ensure that children leave home well hydrated and take enough water to school.

“Parents should make sure children drink enough water throughout the day. Schools can also play an important role by allowing learners regular water breaks and ensuring that they have access to shaded or cooler areas, especially during very hot days,” said Madela.

Although learners are required to wear school uniforms, Madela advised parents to avoid dressing children in unnecessary additional layers and to ensure that uniforms are clean and appropriate for the weather.

She also encouraged schools to monitor learners during outdoor activities and to avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight during the hottest parts of the day.

For adults, Madela said similar precautions should be taken, particularly by people who work outdoors, exercise regularly or spend long periods in hot environments.

Adults should drink plenty of water, take breaks in cool or shaded areas and wear light, breathable clothing where their workplace allows it.

Those who exercise should avoid strenuous activities during the hottest part of the day and shower soon afterwards to remove sweat from the skin.

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“Keeping the skin cool and dry is important. If you have been sweating heavily, take a cool shower and gently pat your skin dry. Avoid rubbing or scratching areas that are irritated,” she advised.

Madela said people should also avoid applying heavy, oily creams or products that can block the sweat ducts when experiencing heat rash.

“Instead, keeping the affected area cool, dry and clean can help the skin recover,” she added.

She urged parents to pay particular attention to babies and young children, who may not always be able to communicate that they are feeling too hot.

Parents and caregivers should regularly check their skin, keep them comfortably cool and ensure they receive enough fluids.

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For adults, especially older people and those who work in hot conditions, Madela recommended taking regular breaks, drinking water frequently and paying attention to warning signs such as excessive sweating, dizziness, weakness or feeling faint.

She cautioned against scratching heat rash, as this can damage the skin and increase the risk of infection.

“If the rash becomes severe, painful, spreads, develops signs of infection or does not improve after cooling the skin and avoiding heat, it is important to seek medical attention,” cited Madela.

As warmer weather approaches, Madela encouraged families, schools and workplaces to make heat safety a priority.

She said simple measures such as staying hydrated, keeping the skin clean and dry, taking breaks from the heat and avoiding prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can help prevent heat rash and keep both children and adults comfortable throughout the warmer months.