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Facial swelling

• Overview
• Treatment

Definition:

Facial swelling is the build-up of fluid in the face. Swelling may also affect the neck and upper arms.

Alternative Names:

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

Considerations:

If the facial swelling is mild, it may be hard to detect. To assist the health care provider in diagnosing the cause, it is important to note the following:

• Pain, and where it hurts
• How long the swelling has lasted
• What makes it better or worse
• If you have other symptoms

Common Causes:

• Allergic reaction (such as allergic rhinitis , hay fever, or a bee sting )
• Angioedema
• Blood transfusion reaction
• Cellulitis
• Conjunctivitis with swelling around the eye(s)
• Drug reactions, including those due to aspirin, penicillin, sulfa, glucocorticoids, and others
• Head, nose, or jaw surgery
• Injury or trauma to the face (such as a burn)
• Malnutrition (when severe)
• Obesity
• Sinusitis
• Stye with swelling around the infected eye
• Tooth abscess

• Review Date: 1/22/2007
• Reviewed By: Benjamin W. Van Voorhees, MD, MPH, Assistant Professor of Medicine and Pediatrics, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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