Carcinoid syndrome (group of symptoms associated with carcinoid tumors, which are tumors of the small intestine, colon, appendix, and bronchial tubes in the lungs)
Other causes include:
Alcohol use
Certain medicines used to treat diabetes and high cholesterol
Exercise
Extreme emotions
Hot or spicy foods
Rapid changes in temperature or heat exposure
Home Care
Try to avoid the things that cause your blushing. For example, you may need to avoid hot drinks, spicy foods, extreme temperatures, or bright sunlight.
When to Contact a Medical Professional
Contact your health care provider if you have persistent flushing, particularly if you have other symptoms (such as diarrhea).
What to Expect at Your Office Visit
The provider will perform a physical exam and may ask about your medical history and symptoms, including:
Does the flushing affect the whole body or just the face?
James WD, Elston DM, Treat JR, Rosenbach MA, Neuhaus IM. Erythema and urticaria. In: James WD, Elston DM, Treat JR, Rosenbach MA, Neuhaus IM, eds. Andrews' Diseases of the Skin. 13th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 7.
Review Date:
6/7/2023
Reviewed By:
Elika Hoss, MD, Assistant Professor of Dermatology, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, AZ. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.