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Skin blushing/flushing

• Overview
• Treatment

Definition:

Skin blushing or flushing is a sudden reddening of the face, neck, or upper chest.

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:

• Alcohol use
• Carcinoid syndrome
• Certain medicines used to treat diabetes and high cholesterol
• Extreme emotions
• High fever
• Hot or spicy foods
• Menopause
• Rapid changes in temperature
• Rosacea

• Review Date: 4/16/2007
• Reviewed By: Michael S. Lehrer, M.D., Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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