Skin blushing/flushing

• Alternative Names

  Blushing; Flushing; Red face

• Considerations

  Blushing is a normal body response that may occur when you are embarrassed, angry, excited, or experiencing some other strong emotion.

  Flushing of the face may also be associated with certain medical conditions.

• Common Causes

  Common causes include:

  • Extreme emotions
  • Hot or spicy foods
  • Rosacea

  Other causes include:

  • Alcohol use
  • Carcinoid syndrome
  • Certain medicines used to treat diabetes and high cholesterol
  • High fever
  • Menopause
  • Rapid changes in temperature
• Home Care

  Try to avoid the things that cause your blushing. For example, you may need to avoid hot drinks, spicy foods, extreme temperatures, and bright sunlight.

• Call your health care provider if

  Call your doctor if you have persistent flushing, particularly if you have other symptoms (such as diarrhea).

• What to expect at your health care provider's office

  Your doctor will perform a physical exam and may ask you questions about your medical history and symptoms, including:

  • Does the flushing affect the whole body or just the face?
  • Do you have hot flashes?
  • How often do you have flushing or blushing?
  • Are episodes getting worse or more frequent?
  • Is it worse after you drink alcohol?
  • What other symptoms do you have? For example, do you have diarrhea, wheezing, hives, or difficulty breathing?

Review Date: 4/15/2009

Reviewed By: Jonathan Kantor, M.D., North Florida Dermatology Associates, Jacksonville, FL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.