Causes and risk factors
Widening of the capillaries under the skin caused due to stimuli via the sympathetic nervous system results in blushing. It occurs as a response to certain emotion like fright, fear, anger, happiness, or other mental and physical stress too. In some people, blushing occurs without any apparent cause.
Clinical presentation:
Sudden reddening of the skin particularly of the face and neck is the characteristic feature of blushing. This lasts for a few minutes and disappears. However, in some people severe blushing can be seen which lasts for a prolonged time. Excessive sweating can also occur. This can lead to embarrassment and low self-esteem.
Investigations:
Diagnosis can be done on the basis of the symptoms narrated by the patient and the physical examination carried out by the dermatologist. A detailed history is taken from the patient.
Treatment:
Usually in mild cases, no treatment is needed; however, in severe cases medications are prescribed. Beta-blocker or anxiety medications are prescribed. Cognitive behavioral therapy needs to be adopted. Endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy has also been effective in treating blushing and excessive sweating.
Other modes of treatment:
Certain other modes of treatment can also be helpful in coping up with the symptom. Taking into consideration the symptoms in a holistic way, homoeopathy can offer a good aid for the relief of the symptoms.
