Thursday, November 21, 2013

Why do we blush when we are embarrassed?

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           We turn red when the blood vessels in our skin expand. This can occur after physical effort, or when it's hot, because it enables the body to lose heat. It also occurs if we are angry or in an unpleasant or embarrassing situation, because stress hormones cause blood pressure to rise, which increases the blood supply to the skin, showing up particularly on the face and neck. Blushing caused by embarrassment only lasts a few seconds and is often barely noticeable. However, some people have a stranger reaction, and for reasons that are still unclear, the increased blood flow continues for longer periods. Fear of blushing can make the problem even worse. This phenomenon-which specialists call erythrophobia-can be treated by psychotherapy, relaxation therapy, medication or, as a last resort, surgery.

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