Erythrophobia is an unusual and persistent fear of facial blushing or blushing in general. Blushing displays a marked redness of one’s face; the term is seldom applied except when the redness is construed as a result of embarrassment, shame, or modesty. If redness persists for abnormal amounts of time after blushing then it is considered an early sign of rosacea.

Those suffering usually experience anxiety even though they realize that such a fear is irrational. The problem or anxiety stems from worrying about being the focus of attention which may lead to embarrassment. Many who try to hide blushing usually end up making the condition even worse.

People suffering from blushing usually try to avoid social gatherings, public speaking engagements, and other situations that may lead to a large gathering of people. Unfortunately, this can prevent the person from maximizing their full potential or possibly prevent them from moving up the ranks within their organization.

“Erythrophobia” also can refer to fear of the color red because of what it may symbolize, such as blood. The terms “redcoat” (British soldier in the American Revolution) and “red” (synonym for “communist”) gave Americans valid reasons to fear red. Other terms with “red” that have a negative connotation include “redeye” (an overnight air flight), “caught red-handed” (caught with evidence of guilt) “red-herring” (a deceptive tactic), “red ink” (a financial loss) and “seeing red” (angry).

“Erythrophobia” is derived from the Greek “erythros” (red) and “phobos” (fear). “Erythros” also gives us the English words “erythema” (inflammation of the skin that causes reddening) and “erythrocyte” (a red blood cell).

There is a cure for facial blushing, well, it may be a cure for many – Public Speaking. (What! You have to be kidding!) Actually, there is probably a ToastMasters organization close to you which acts as a support group for those that want to overcome this problem. They are a group of people just like you who want to improve their ability to speak in front of others and it’s a way for you to work on the issue on your own time!