Heat rashes while working

As hard as it is to balance it out, I get heat rashes on my upper chest and the sides of my back.  It doesn't look serious though.  It doesn't itch either.  It just looks like little red bumps, some of them have puss in them, but for the most part it just looks like plain ACNE.  The problem however is that I work at UPS unloading trailers (i just got the job last monday) and I sweat like crazy which is likely the cause, as well as the heat in those trailers from sitting in the sun all day.  I tried wearing lighter shorts and a lighter and more air-y shirt and nothing seems to be changing.  I'm not gaining or losing this heat rash, but it is starting to make me a bit self-conscience.  I certainly can't quit my job to avoid that sort of temperature but I'm wondering if there is any other way to take care of this?  Should I drink more water than usual?

[Dr Rajput]

Hi, welcome to the forum, sweating is known to cause allergic manifestations in certain individuals and can worsened with concomitant Atopic dermatitis or Contact dermatitis. Even temperature changes like exposure to heat can cause such manifestations (physicial urticaria).  

Usually allergens are small molecules which can penetrate the layers of the skin and sweating is known to enhance this action. More over there is infection and pus formation which points to folliculitis. Hence, may need topical antibiotics.

Topical lotions such as calamine decreases pain and pruritus. Systemic antihistamines (antipruritics) such as hydroxyzine or cetirizine against prescription may be helpful. Even addition of corticosteroids has possible benefits.

As for sweating is concerned Talcum, Aluminum Chloride with Ethyl Alcohol, Anticholinergics or Propantheline Bromide at bedtime can be used against prescription. The actual treatment would be avoidance of the primary allergen.

I suggest you to consult dermatologist for further evaluation and treatment. Take care and regards.