Blushing, sometimes known as 'flushing’, is where areas of the body suddenly become red in colour.
This is due to an excess amount of blood flowing into the small blood vessels that are located just below the surface of the skin.
Areas where blushing commonly occurs include:
- the face
- ears
- neck
- upper chest
As well as causing redness, blushing can sometimes make the affected area feel hot.
Who is affected by blushing?
Blushing affects both men and women, and is a normal response in anyone who is feeling a strong emotion, such as anger, embarrassment or excitement.
Blushing can sometimes be caused by a number of medical conditions. See Blushing - causes for more information.
The medical term for severe cases of blushing is idiopathic cranio-facial erytherma.
Hyperhidrosis
Some people who have facial blushing may also sweat excessively, particularly in the face or hands. This condition is known as hyperhidrosis.
A surgical procedure called endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy (ETS) is often used to treat hyperhidrosis when it occurs with blushing. However, ETS is usually recommended only if more conventional treatments, such as psychological therapies, have not worked.
See the Health A-Z topic about Hyperhidrosis for more information about the condition.
When to see your GP
Visit your GP if your blushing is so frequent and severe that it is having an impact on your personal and professional life. Your GP can establish what is causing your condition and recommend the most appropriate treatment for you.
