Blushing Redhead - Skin Problems Message Board

strawbabble · 09-15-2004, 04:17 AM

Me being a redhead gives me what usually all redheads have-fair skin. I'm talking about whenever I'm called on in class and everyone turns their head towards me, I turn bright red. I've always noticed when I wear a low cut shirt that when I turn red my torso turns really blotchy and red. My boyfriend tells me this isn't normal, but I think it is. Does anyone else have this happen to them if they blush a lot like me? Also, if anyone has any ways of helping me not blush, I'd be greatly appreciative. Thanks!

dianabarry · 09-16-2004, 10:04 AM

I am not redhead, and I am not that pale, however, it happens to me. If I am ever embarassed, excited, happy, etc or sometimes for no reason at all, I will turn very red, with blotches on my neck and face and ears. It is very embarassing. It is actually a condition, not serious, but it is real. For me, I can feel it coming on, if I am anxious for any reason, I can feel my neck getting hot, and the blotches show up. This happens to everyone, however, with most people, you don't see the blood rising to the skin like with us.

octoberbaby · 09-17-2004, 12:58 PM

I also have this problem. I know how embarassing and aggravating it is. My doctor prescribed Atenolol (sp?) to take if I know I'm going to be in a stressful sitiuation ahead of time, such as testifying in court, which I had to do a couple of years ago.

Unfortunately, I don't think there is a cure for it or anything that you can take on a daily basis to control it 100%. Even though I've been out of school for many years, I can relate to what you're talking about - having all eyes on you during class. The exact same thing would happen to me. I'm not a redhead either, I'm a brunette w/ fair-medium skin.

Can you talk to your doctor about it? Maybe he/she can offer some suggestions. The bad part is, I think this is an uncommon condition so many doctors don't know much about it.

Good luck to you.

dianabarry · 09-18-2004, 07:54 AM

There is something that can be done about it, I saw a program on this, a guy had it, and he was really embarassed about it. I can't remember what he procedure is, but it is not a simple one, I too rmember being embarassed in class and turning all shades of red.

Bothrops · 09-18-2004, 04:51 PM

It happens to me too. I also saw the 20/20 that had a guy who had it, his operation cost 2 grand. Not sure what they do. If your heart starts racing when it occurs maybe beta blockers would help you. My doc gave me some and told me that they work very well for that. Like anxiety meds you have to wene yourself off of them if you want to quit. They also reduce the risk of heart attack.