7 Physiological Signs of a Crush, According to Experts

It’s not always easy to tell if someone is just friendly towards you or if they’re already into you. Similarly, how do you know whether you like a particular person or just want to be good friends with them?

To answer these questions, we asked experts to share their insights. Here are the 7 physiological signs of a crush.

Anthony Kouri, M.D.

Anthony Kouri

Orthopedic Surgeon, University of Toledo Medical Center

Sign #1: Their Cheeks Are Flushed

This is one of the most telltale signs of a crush. If you notice that a person’s cheeks get a little pink, or even bright red, when they are around you, that likely means they have a crush on you. This is due to a release of adrenaline, which causes increased blood flow to the cheeks.

Sign #2: They Shake When You’re Around Them

If you notice that they shake, or tremble, more when around you, they might have a crush on you. This is simply due to nerves, or anxiety because they like you so much.

Sign #3: Their Pupils Are Dilated

When somebody likes us, their pupils tend to dilate. This is subtler, and you’ll have to look into their eyes to pick up on it. In normal daylight, pupils tend to be more constricted, so if you notice dilated pupils in this situation, you might have a crush on your hands.

When we are attracted to someone, we unconsciously open our eyes wider so we can see things better, and get to know the person better.

Sign #4: They Sweat a Lot

Some people are naturally sweaty, so this does not always mean they have a crush on you. However, sweating can be a definite sign of someone who has a crush on you. The person may not be sweating, rather they are just hotter than normal. This may be noticeable if you’re close to them.

Related: How to Tell Someone You Like Them

Sign #5: They Have a Rapid Heartbeat

This is difficult to discern by looking at someone. But if you happen to be pressed against them you may feel their heart racing. Also, you may notice rapid pulsations in their neck coming from the carotid artery.

Adina Mahalli

Adina-Mahalli

Certified Mental Health Consultant, Enlightened Reality | Relationship Expert, Maple Holistics

Sign #6: Your Palms Tend to Be Sweaty

If you find that your palms are sweaty when you lay your eyes on someone you like, it may be a physiological sign of a crush.

When you’re excited, the hormones dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine combine to produce those feelings of excitement. Norepinephrine is the particular source of your sweaty palms when you see someone you like.

Sign #7: You Have Butterflies in Your Stomach

That feeling of butterflies in your stomach is a common physiological sign that you have a crush on someone. The neurons that line your gut means your stomach is connected to the nervous system.

Feeling nervous around your crush can result in the “butterflies in your stomach” feeling that we associate with liking someone.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a crush?

A crush is an intense attraction or infatuation with someone. It is often characterized by feelings of butterflies in your stomach, daydreaming, and a desire to be near that person as often as possible.

Why do we experience physiological signs when we have a crush?

When we have a crush, our bodies release hormones such as adrenaline, dopamine, and serotonin, which can cause physical reactions like increased heart rate and sweating. These hormones are associated with feelings of pleasure and excitement that can increase our attraction to the person.

Can you control the physiological signs of a crush?

While you can’t necessarily control the physiological signs of a crush, you can try to manage your reactions to them. For example, if you feel nervous or anxious around your crush, you can try deep breathing or other relaxation techniques to calm your body.

Do all people experience the same physiological signs of a crush?

No, everyone experiences and reacts to a crush differently. Some people may have more intense physical reactions, while others may not experience many physiological signs at all.

Can you have a crush on someone of the same gender or a different gender than you usually find attractive?

Yes, it is possible to have a crush on someone of the same gender or a different gender than you usually find attractive. Attraction is a complex and multifaceted experience involving a variety of factors such as personality, interests, and physical appearance.

Can you have a crush on someone without wanting to have a romantic relationship with them?

Yes, it is possible to have a crush on someone without wanting to pursue a romantic relationship with them. These feelings can be based on physical attraction or admiration for the person’s qualities but may not necessarily involve a desire for a romantic or sexual relationship.

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