My problem is embarrassing facial flushing, is there anything I can do about it?

A number of our visitors have asked about treatments for distressing blushing and face redness. Facial flushing, blushing, or redness can be associated with excessive sweating, or hyperhidrosis. But experts indicate it's much more common for blushing and redness to be related to another, separate condition. For instance, women experiencing menopause may experience facial flushing. Or, flushing may be a symptom of an anxiety disorder. And commonly, the skin condition rosacea can cause facial redness. (For more information about rosacea, visit the National Rosacea Society at www.rosacea.org).

Because flushing can either be a condition unto itself or related to a separate medical condition, it is very important that you talk to a physician about your problem so that he or she can determine the reason for the flushing and the appropriate treatment. Possible treatments may include lifestyle changes or prescription oral medications (such as beta blockers).

A number of different types of physicians may treat facial flushing, including your primary care physician and/or a dermatologist. Either of these physicians may also refer you to another specialist, such as a mental health expert, depending upon what they believe may be causing your facial flushing. If you experience flushing, blushing, or facial redness, don't suffer in silence. Talk to a healthcare professional. Help may be available.