When people get angry and turn red, it's primarily due to a physiological response called "blushing" combined with the increased blood flow that occurs during the anger response. Let's break it down:
Blushing: Blushing is a natural response that occurs when the small blood vessels near the skin's surface dilate (expand). This dilation allows more blood to flow through these vessels, causing the skin to appear redder. Blushing is most commonly associated with feelings of embarrassment or social anxiety, but it can also occur during moments of anger or strong emotions.
Increased blood flow during anger: When a person experiences anger, their body enters a state of arousal known as the "fight or flight" response. During this response, various physiological changes occur to prepare the body for action. One of these changes is an increase in heart rate and blood pressure, which leads to increased blood flow throughout the body.
When anger is intense or prolonged, the increased blood flow from the fight or flight response can contribute to the reddening of the face and neck, making the person visibly appear "red" or flushed.
It's important to note that not everyone exhibits the same physical response to anger, and different people may have varying levels of facial flushing. Additionally, the intensity of anger and the specific physiological reactions can vary from person to person.
Apart from facial flushing, other common signs of anger can include muscle tension, increased breathing rate, clenched fists, and a heightened sense of agitation or irritation.
Anger is a normal human emotion, but it's crucial to manage it constructively and avoid aggressive or harmful behavior towards oneself or others. If anger becomes overwhelming or interferes with daily life, it may be helpful to seek support from a mental health professional to learn healthy coping strategies for managing strong emotions.