What condition results in flushed skin from high blood pressure or heat exposure?

Flushed skin occurs as a result of increased blood flow to the skin's surface, which can be triggered by various factors, including high blood pressure or heat exposure. When blood vessels dilate (a process known as vasodilation), it allows more blood to circulate closer to the skin, which leads to a reddish or flushed appearance. This phenomenon is often a body's response to thermoregulation—helping to dissipate heat—or an indication of other underlying medical conditions such as hypertension.

In contrast, cyanosis refers to a bluish discoloration of the skin due to insufficient oxygen in the blood. Mottling describes a patchy discoloration often associated with circulatory issues or shock. Jaundice entails a yellowing of the skin and eyes due to elevated bilirubin levels, usually associated with liver dysfunction. Each of these conditions presents differently, making flushed skin a distinct and recognizable sign of high blood pressure or heat exposure.