Goosebumps: What Causes Them? - A Comprehensive Explanation

Question
I was wondering would you please tell me:  what are goose bumps?

Thanks

Answer
Cameron,

Goose Bumps are caused by a neurological reaction or reflex that will stimulate the small muscles at the base of the hair follicle... piloerection or horripilation is the medical term.  When you get scared or cold this is a normal reaction.  Our predecessors when cold would raise their "fur" to trap heat and stay warm (much like mammals in cold weather do today).  Also when startled it happens to make us appear "bigger" and a big furry animal will most likely scare off a predator.

see:  http://www.medterms.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=19408  for more information.


JP Saleeby, MD
www.saleeby.net