Small red bumps

[irishguy2014]

Hi there, I notice i get small red bumps on my arms. I notice these more so after sweating, after a hot shower or when in air conditioning. I was on a sunbed about a week ago and this is when i noticed these flare up (a few days later) They tend to come and go and more on one arm than on the other. Is it just a heat rash? does heat rash come and go like this?

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
It can be due to folliculitis due to irritated hair follicles. Folliculitis is the inflammation of one or more hair follicles and presents as red pimples with a hair in the center of each one. The pimples may have pus in them, and they may itch or burn.  The burning sensation may persist till there is complete healing of the skin and the time taken varies with each individual.
Mild folliculitis usually heals on its own in about 2 weeks. Other than that, you can apply warm compresses and topical antibiotics.

It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.

[irishguy2014]

Hi there, thanks for your reply. I have been getting if on and off the last few months. Today id the worst it has ever been. Its really noticable. However it has been extremely humid here the last few days and i have been perspiring alot. there doesnt seen to be a hair in most of them, the can be itchy (a pins and needles sensation) I have taken photos and shown my doctor but he doesnt think its anything to worry about. However is it quite embarrassing and uncomfortable.