Berth

Prickly heat and heat rash

Question

Every time I go on holiday abroad I suffer with terrible prickly heat/heat rash all over my legs (especially from the knee downwards) and the tops of my arms.

I've tried using oil-free sun creams, which doesn't help. My limbs become very unsightly, sore and itchy and I just don't know what to do.

'’m going away again soon and I want to be able to have a trouble-free holiday.

Any suggestions for creams or tablets I could take with me to help prevent me getting this rash.

Answer

This is a very common problem and is essentially an allergic reaction.

You should therefore start taking a simple once daily non-sedating antihistamine tablet – available from any chemist – the day you go on holiday and continue this during your time away.

You can eat and drink normally with these, and do everything you would normally do on holiday but without the rash or prickly heat.

I am sure this will cure you so enjoy the holiday!