Naked Science Forum

Life Sciences => Physiology & Medicine => Topic started by: paul.fr on 14/05/2007 20:48:59

Title: blushing
Post by: paul.fr on 14/05/2007 20:48:59

why do we blush when we get embarrassed? What mechanism causes the blushing?

Title: blushing
Post by: _Stefan_ on 15/05/2007 08:12:27

Increased bloodflow to the face?

Maybe it evolved so that others could interpret how we're feeling at the time of blushing.
Our faces also become red when we're angry... so maybe it has to do with emotions in general, as a way of visually communicating with others.

Title: blushing
Post by: paul.fr on 15/05/2007 09:31:07

Quote from: _Stefan_ on 15/05/2007 08:12:27

Increased bloodflow to the face?

Maybe it evolved so that others could interpret how we're feeling at the time of blushing.
Our faces also become red when we're angry... so maybe it has to do with emotions in general, as a way of visually communicating with others.

Thanks, Stefan. I have only ever known one person that realy went red in the face, through anger. It was a rather amusing sight.

I wonder what mechanism, controls this reaction.