What Causes Flushing?

Discussion Flushing is usually thought of as a benign condition such as blushing, but can be quite irritating if it is frequent or persistent (i.e. menopausal hot flashes) or even pathologic (i.e. malignancy). “Flushing is a subjective and sensation of warmth that is accompanied by reddening of the skin anywhere on the body but favors the face, neck, and upper torso…. Flushing can be broadly divided into episodic or persistent. Episodic flashing is mediated by the release of endogenous vasoactive mediators or medications, while persistent flushing result in a fixed facial erythema with telangiectasias and cyanosis due to slow-flowing deoxygenated blood in large cutaneous blood vessels.” The upper body has more superficial blood vessels with increased dilation capacitance therefore these areas are more noticeable. Sweating with flushing is called wet flushing and is associated with autonomic hyperactivation. Fever and hyperthermia are common reasons. Dry flushing is associated with substances causing activation of the vascular smooth muscle. History is important. Determining the cause can be helped by noting the type of flushing, location, and associated problems such as bronchospasm, hypotension, lightheadedness, and tachycardia. Triggers such as food, alcohol or drugs, emotions, physical exertion or stress should be elicited. A thorough medication and allergy history are important. Physical examination should include a thorough physical examination lookin...
Source: PediatricEducation.org - Category: Pediatrics Authors: Tags: Uncategorized Source Type: news