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Facial swelling

Contents of this page:

Illustrations

Edema, central on the face
Edema, central on the face

Alternative Names    Return to top

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

Definition    Return to top

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

Considerations    Return to top

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:

Causes    Return to top

Home Care    Return to top

Apply cold compresses to reduce swelling from an injury. Raise the head of the bed (or use extra pillows) to help reduce facial swelling.

When to Contact a Medical Professional    Return to top

You should call your health care provider if you have:

What to Expect at Your Office Visit    Return to top

If facial swelling is caused by burns, or respiratory distress is present, emergency measures must be taken first. Then the medical history will be obtained and a physical examination performed.

Medical history questions documenting facial swelling in detail may include the following:

Diagnostic tests will be determined by other accompanying symptoms and results of the physical examination.

References    Return to top

Bolognia J. Infections, hyper- and hypopigmentation, regional dermatology, and distinctive lesions in black skin. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007:chap 467.

Update Date: 2/23/2009

Updated by: David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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