Any abnormalities on the skin can be alarming. There is a huge variety of conditions that can develop on the skin, they all have different causes but can share some similar symptoms. Heat rashes and herpes are two very common skin problems that people suffer with. Each is very different, both in cause and symptoms experienced. Let’s explore what makes them so different.
Facts About Heat Rash
1. Basics
Heat rashes happen with sweat ducts get clogged and the sweat can’t surface to the top of the skin. The sweat is then trapped underneath the skin and causes inflammation, or a rash. It is a mild problem and can typically be treated at home. It is also avoidable
2. Symptoms
The severity of heat rashes can range from mild to severe. Mild symptoms include a redness on the skin and small fluid filled blisters. Severe symptoms can cause pus filled blisters and firm lesions on the surface of the skin. It is most common in folds of the skin and where clothes cause friction.
3. Causes
Heat rash is most common in newborn babies. This is because their sweat glands have not fully matured and become easily clogged. Intense exercise can also lead to heat rash due to the amount of perspiration. Heat rash can also occur in people who stay in bed for prolonged periods of time, especially if a fever is present. Being in a very hot or humid environment.
4. Treatment
Heat rash will usually clear up quickly on it’s own once the skin is cooled down. Some severe rashes may require the use of ointments such as calamine lotion or anhydrous lanolin.
All About Herpes
1. What It Is
Herpes is a contagious virus, often on the genitals. They are caused by the herpes simplex virus. It is considered a sexually transmitted disease (STD) and is incurable. Some treatment options are available to help lengthen the time between outbreaks. Herpes is highly contagious.
2. Symptoms
The symptoms of herpes depends on where is infected. The mouth (oral) and genitals are the two places affected. In genital herpes blisters, burning with urination, itching, and swelling are common. With oral herpes cold sores develop on the lips or just around the mouth, they can also show up inside of the mouth. The sores will often clear up in a couple of weeks and then reappear at a later time.
3. Treatment
Treatment options are available for people suffering from herpes. Some medications help to rapidly heal the sores and also shorten outbreak times. Over the counter pain relief can be taken in order to help manage pain and swelling. Warm baths can also help to relieve pain. Keeping the sores and area infected dry and clean during a outbreak is very important.
Differences Between Heat Rash and Herpes
1. What It Is
Herpes and heat rash are two very different medical conditions. Herpes is a sexually transmitted disease that is characterized by sores on the mouth or genitals. Heat rash is a very mild skin irritation that clears up quickly.
2. Contagious
Heat rash is not contagious. There is no way for someone to contract a heat rash, even from direct contact, from a person suffering. Herpes however is highly contagious and any form of contact with someone experiencing a herpes outbreak can potentially contract the disease.
3. Cause
The cause of each of these medical problems are also vastly different. Herpes is caused by the herpes simplex virus and can cause serious medical problems. Heat rash is caused by the temporary clogging of sweat ducts, due to clothing or environment.
4. Prevention
Both heat rashes and herpes can be successfully prevented. You can prevent developing a heat rash by wearing appropriate clothes and keeping your skin cool. Herpes can be prevented by practicing safe sex all the time. Being tested if you show any signs of herpes is vitally important.
5. Treatment
There is no cure for herpes. The only treatment available is to help manage symptoms and try to reduce outbreak times. Heat rash will clear up on it’s own, usually within a few minutes to an hour. All you have to do is cool the skin.