Puffiness of the face (swollen face): What's it, causes, symptoms, diagnostics, treatment, prevention

Facial swelling; Puffy face; Swelling of the face; Moon face; Facial edema

Swelling of the face - what is it?

swelling of the face, also known as swelling of the face, represents an increase in the face due to the accumulation of fluid in the tissues of the face. It may look like swelling, usually affecting the eyes, cheeks, lips and other areas of the face. This is usually not a serious condition., although it may be uncomfortable or painful and may make daily activities difficult.

The swelling may also spread to the neck and shoulders.

Swelling of the face - causes

Swelling of the face can be the result of many factors, from allergies or infections to hormonal changes or even certain diseases. Common causes of facial swelling include:

• Allergies. Common allergies can cause swelling of the face and other signs and symptoms. Common allergic facial reactions include hay fever or allergic rhinitis, as well as food allergies, allergies to insects and drugs.
• Injuries. Traumatic injuries, such as a car accident, face fracture, blunt force trauma to the face or surgery, can cause swelling of the face.
• Infection. Bacterial infections, such as staphylococcus or streptococcus, usually cause more pronounced swelling of the face. Other infections, like the flu, measles and mononucleosis, can also cause swelling of the face.
• Fluid retention. When fluid is retained in the body, it can contribute to swelling of the face. It is often a side effect of certain medications or may be caused by hormonal changes or underlying medical conditions..

Other causes of facial swelling include:

• Angioedema
• Reaction to a blood transfusion
• Cellulitis
• Conjunctivitis (eye inflammation)
• drug reactions, including those associated with aspirin, penicillin, sulьfanilamidami, glucocorticoids, etc.
• Head surgery, nose or jaw
• Malnutrition (in severe cases)
• Obesity
• Diseases of the salivary glands
• Sinusitis
• Styes with swelling around the infected eye
• Tooth abscess

Swelling of the face - symptoms

Some signs and symptoms of facial swelling include:

• puffy eyes. The eyes are usually the first part of the face., that swells with liquid. Your eyelids may appear swollen, and you might find it hard to close your eyes.
• swollen lips. Swollen lips may feel tight or sore. Some people may also notice a change in the color of the swollen area..
• Swelling of the cheeks. Your cheeks may appear puffy, pale or discolored. Puffy cheeks can make your face look rounder or fuller, than usual.
• Soreness. The affected area of ​​the face may feel painful, sore or aching. Depending on the cause, you may also experience headaches., itch, jaw pain or difficulty opening your mouth.

swelling of the face: when to see a doctor

If your facial swelling is sudden, persistent or causing other signs or symptoms, you should see a doctor. It may be due to an underlying medical condition or a drug reaction., insect bites or other allergens. If not treated, swelling of the face can lead to further complications.

In some cases, facial swelling may signal a medical emergency., eg, about anaphylaxis. Seek immediate medical attention, if you have trouble breathing or swallowing, or if you experience any of the following symptoms in addition to facial swelling:

• Swelling of the tongue and throat
• wheezing
• Hives
• Confusion
• Difficulties with pronunciation of words
• Cardiopalmus
• Dizziness
• stomach cramps
• Nausea

Swelling of the face - diagnosis

To diagnose, your doctor will first ask about your medical history, lifestyle and any possible triggers for facial swelling. He or she will then examine the affected area of ​​your face and may order additional tests to determine the underlying cause.. Possible tests may include x-rays, computed tomography or blood tests.

Swelling of the face - treatment

Treatment for facial swelling depends on the cause.. If facial swelling is caused by an allergic reaction, important to avoid triggers. Your doctor may also suggest medication, such as antihistamines, corticosteroids or antibiotics, to relieve symptoms and reduce swelling of the face.

If swelling of the face is caused by fluid retention, your doctor may prescribe medications to reduce the amount of fluid in your body. These medicines may include diuretics.

For facial swelling due to injury or injury, a doctor may recommend ice or heat therapy to reduce inflammation. Other methods, such as topical creams or facial massage, may also be helpful.

Home treatment for swelling of the face

There are several possible home treatments for facial swelling.. These include:

• Elevated position. Keep your head above the level of your heart, to reduce swelling.
• Ice: apply a cold compress or cloth, soaked in cold water, to the affected area, to reduce swelling.
• Heat. In some cases, swelling of the face may respond better to heat.. damp heat, eg, hot compress or warm washcloth, may help reduce facial swelling.
• Compression. Using an elastic bandage to compress the affected area may help reduce swelling..
• Diet. Eating a low-sodium diet may help reduce fluid retention and reduce facial swelling.

Prevention of swelling of the face

The best way to prevent facial swelling is to avoid potential triggers.. If you are prone to allergies, take your medicine, to reduce allergy symptoms, avoid contact with known allergens and seek medical attention immediately, if you develop any signs or symptoms of an allergic reaction.

It is also important to take action, to protect yourself from injury and infection, which can cause swelling of the face. These include wearing protective gear when performing certain activities., maintaining good hygiene and receiving recommended vaccinations.

Finally, make sure, that you eat a healthy diet and exercise regularly, to reduce fluid retention. Reducing the intake of salty foods, wearing loose clothing and avoiding tight jewelry can also help reduce facial swelling..

Used sources and literature

Dinulos JGH. Urticaria, angioedema and pruritus. In: Dinulos JGH, ed. Habif’s Clinical Dermatology: A Color Guide in Diagnosis and Therapy. 7th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 6.

Guluma K, Lee JE. Ophthalmology. In: Walls RM, Hockberger RS, Gausche-Hill M, eds. Rosen’s Emergency Medicine: Concepts and Clinical Practice. 9th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2018:chap 61.

Pedigo RA, Amsterdam JT. Oral medicine. In: Walls RM, Hockberger RS, Gausche-Hill M, eds. Rosen’s Emergency Medicine: Concepts and Clinical Practice. 9th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2018:chap 60.

Pfaff JA, Moore GP. Otolaryngology. In: Walls RM, Hockberger RS, Gausche-Hill M, eds. Rosen’s Emergency Medicine: Concepts and Clinical Practice. 9th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2018:chap 62.