Face redness, or flushing, has a variety of possible causes. Most commonly, the face reddens in response to a trigger that causes vasodilation, such as strong emotions, spicy or hot foods, fever, medications such as Niaspan, and hot flashes during menopause. Occasionally, the cause of face redness can be more serious, the Mayo Clinic advises.
Carcinoid Syndrome
Carcinoid syndrome results from a rare tumor called a carcinoid tumor, a neuroendocrine tumor that grows from endocrine tissue and produces hormone-like chemicals. These chemicals cause symptoms including facial redness and warmth, wheezing, diarrhea and a fast heartbeat, according to the Caring for Carcinoid Foundation. When grouped together, these symptoms are called "carcinoid syndrome." Because carcinoid tumors produce hormones, they cause symptoms throughout the body. Carcinoid tumors most commonly occur in the intestine, but can also occur in the lung, pancreas and thyroid. The most common sign is severe flushing of the face and neck, ranging in color from deep red to violaceous, following the consumption of hot or spicy food, alcoholic beverages or emotional stress, according to the Merck Manuals.
Rosacea
Rosacea is a chronic, progressive and common skin disease, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Rosacea commonly begins with the tendency to blush easily, and progresses to a persistent redness of the center of the face. It may gradually affect the chin, forehead, ears, chest and back. Spider veins and small red bumps that can resemble acne may develop. The affected skin swells, and in advanced cases a red and bulbous nose, or rhinophyma, may develop. In 50 percent of cases, dry, red and gritty eyes occur, and serious eye complications are possible.
Scarlet Fever
Scarlet fever is caused by group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus, a different strain of the bacteria that causes strep throat, MayoClinic.com explains. It is most common in children aged 5 to 15. The symptoms of scarlet fever include a red, sunburn-like rash that feels like sandpaper; red lines in the folds of the skin; a red and bumpy tongue that looks like a strawberry; high fever with chills; a flushed face that is pale around the mouth; and a very sore throat and difficulty swallowing. Although scarlet fever was once a deadly childhood illness, antibiotics are available that successfully treat the disease. If not treated, scarlet fever can cause serious damage to the heart and kidneys, the Mayo Clinic warns.
