Why Do My Ears Turn Red?

Red ears are common, but they can also be embarrassing. Some people are insecure about the appearance of bright red ears, which sometimes happens at strange or inopportune times, but there is a logical explanation for this issue.

Identification

When an ear becomes red it is usually due to flushing or blushing. Blood causes the ear to look red to maroon in color. Blushing is an involuntary action, meaning you can't control it.

Cold

When the sensation of extreme cold hits the ears the blood rushes to that area to warm them up. To avoid this problem, wear ear muffs and scarves before going outside in cold weather.

Embarrassment or Anger

When a person finds himself in an embarrassing, angry or excitable situation, it triggers the sympathetic nervous system. The blood pressure increases sending more blood to the ears.

Concerns

Severe blushing problems can lead to social phobia, due to the fact that the person's physical appearance changes unexpectedly. Excessive facial blushing is called Idiopathic Craniofacial Erythema.

Considerations

To date, there is no absolute conclusion as to why some people blush for no apparent reason, but abnormal serotonin activity may be the culprit. This is the chemical that sends messages to your nerves.

References

• UAB Medicine: Ears (Flushed, Red)
• Science Daily: Sympathetic nervous system
• WorldWide Surgeries, Inc.: Facial Blushing