Extremely itchy and small red blisters (acne look alike) skin in a man's ful back

[chukruda]

My husband's back drives him nuts with so much itching and discomfort. He sweats a lot normally,but he started having this itchy problem for a coupe years ago or so. he did not have anything on his skin for years and years.
He recently started working full-time, wearing a complete business suit, so some days is just so unbearable for him.
What is it? How do we treat this?

[Rowena Santos, MD]

Hi,

Miliaria or sweat rash is a skin disease marked by small and itchy rashes. this is especially common ailment in hot and humid conditions, such as in the tropics and during the summer season. It occurs when the sweat gland ducts get plugged due to dead skin cells or bacteria. The trapped sweat leads to irritation, itching and to a rash of very small blisters, usually in a localized area of the skin. These rashes may occur in the face, neck, skin folds, areas of the body that may rub against clothing, such as the back, chest, and stomach.This can be prevented by avoiding activities that induce sweating, using air conditioning to cool the environment, wearing light clothing and in general, avoiding hot and humid weather and taking frequent cool showers

In most cases the rash of miliaria will resolve without intervention. However, severe cases can last for a number of weeks. It has been suggested that the use of topical antibacterials and antibacterial soaps may shorten the duration of symptoms. Anti-itch preparations such as calamine or menthol and camphor based preparations may also help. If it persists, it would be best to have this evaluated by your doctor.  Take care and regards.