Causes, treatment, and when to see a doctor

There are many potential causes of facial swelling. These include:

Actinomycosis

A doctor should assess any swelling in the face.

Actinomycosis is a rare and potentially severe long-term bacterial infection that causes swelling and abscesses in the soft tissues of the body. This condition typically affects a person’s mouth, nose, throat, stomach, and intestines.

Other symptoms of actinomycosis include:

• chest pain
• coughing
• fever
• lumps on the face
• skin sores
• weight loss

Doctors usually prescribe a high dose of the antibiotic penicillin to treat people with actinomycosis. Other antibiotics are available for those with a penicillin allergy. It may take many months of treatment to cure the infection, but it is not contagious.

Allergic conjunctivitis

Allergic conjunctivitis is a type of eye inflammation that occurs when a person experiences an allergic reaction. Triggers of allergic conjunctivitis are called allergens, and they can include:

• dust
• mold spores
• pet dander
• pollen

This condition causes red, itchy, watery, and burning eyes. The skin around the eyes may appear swollen or puffy, especially upon waking.

People can prevent allergic conjunctivitis by avoiding exposure to the allergen. To treat it, they can apply a cold compress to areas of inflammation or take medications, such as antihistamines and anti-inflammatory or steroid eye drops. It is essential not to rub the eyes as this can worsen the symptoms.

Anaphylaxis

Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction to an allergen. It is a medical emergency and can be fatal. Symptoms tend to appear soon after exposure to the allergen and can quickly get worse. They may include:

• breathing difficulties
• diarrhea
• facial swelling
• hives, which is a red, itchy, and bumpy rash
• itching
• loss of consciousness
• nausea and vomiting
• rapid heart rate
• a sudden drop in blood pressure

It is vital to call 911 if someone displays signs of anaphylaxis. If the person is carrying an epinephrine autoinjector (EpiPen) and is unable to administer it themselves, use it on them as the packaging directs.

People who experience anaphylaxis for the first time are at risk of future reactions. They should avoid exposure to the allergen and carry self-injectable epinephrine at all times.

Angioedema

Angioedema is swelling that occurs deep within the skin and results from an allergic reaction to food, medication, or another allergen, such as an insect bite or sting. Along with facial swelling, other symptoms of angioedema may include:

• hives
• itching
• rash
• stomach cramps

Mild angioedema does not always require treatment, although people should continue to avoid the allergen responsible for their symptoms. Those with moderate-to-severe symptoms may need epinephrine, antihistamines, and other medications.

Home remedies to alleviate discomfort include using cold compresses and wearing loose clothing.

Broken nose

Antibiotics can help treat cellulitis.

Injury to the face can cause the bone in the nose to break. The trauma can also cause facial swelling and other symptoms, such as:

• a crooked nose
• bruising
• nosebleed
• pain

Broken noses do not always require medical treatment, but a person should still see their doctor if they have experienced a facial injury. Treatment for a broken nose typically consists of pain relievers, splinting, and cold compresses. Some people may require surgery.

Cellulitis

Cellulitis is a bacterial infection of the skin that causes areas of redness and swelling that feel hot to the touch. It also tends to be painful. Without treatment, cellulitis may be life-threatening.

Signs of severe infection include:

• fever
• chills
• streaks of red from the rash

Doctors usually prescribe oral antibiotics to treat cellulitis, which a person will need to take for a minimum of 5 days. Resting and taking pain-relieving medications can help reduce discomfort.

Cushing’s syndrome

Cushing’s syndrome is a disorder that occurs when the body makes too much of the hormone cortisol. People with Cushing’s syndrome tend to have a puffy, round face. They may also have skin that bruises easily and excess or thick body hair.

Taking high doses of glucocorticoids is a common cause of Cushing’s syndrome.

Some tumors may also cause the body to make too much cortisol. However, it is rare for the condition to be endogenous, meaning that it results from a problem within the body.

According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, the endogenous form of the condition affects 40 to 70 people out of every million.

Treatment depends on the underlying cause. Options include cortisol-reducing medicines, surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy.

Drug allergy

An allergic reaction to specific medications may be a medical emergency. Along with face swelling, drug allergies can cause:

• breathing difficulties
• fever
• hives
• an itchy, red rash
• rapid heartbeat
• stomach upset

It is important that people inform their doctors, dentists, and pharmacists if they have a known drug allergy and avoid using that medication. A healthcare professional can recommend alternative options.

Common causes of drug allergies can include:

• certain antibiotics, such as penicillin
• anticonvulsants
• nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as aspirin and ibuprofen
• chemotherapy drugs

It may also be necessary for people with drug allergies to wear a medical bracelet to alert others in an emergency situation.

Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism, or an underactive thyroid, is a condition in which the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones. Thyroid hormones help the body regulate its energy use.

A puffy, swollen face is one of the symptoms of hypothyroidism. Other symptoms include:

• constipation
• depression
• dry skin
• fatigue
• feeling cold
• high cholesterol
• muscle weakness
• painful or stiff joints
• slow heart rate
• weight gain

People who are experiencing symptoms of an underactive thyroid should see their doctor for a diagnosis. According to the American Thyroid Association, up to 60 percent of people with thyroid disease are unaware that they have this condition.

There is no cure for hypothyroidism, but medications and lifestyle changes can help people manage their symptoms.

Preeclampsia

Preeclampsia is a condition that occurs in pregnancy and requires urgent medical treatment. The early signs include elevated blood pressure and a high level of protein in the urine. Complications include dangerously high blood pressure, kidney and liver damage, and seizures.

Symptoms include:

• abdominal pain
• a persistent headache
• sudden weight gain
• swelling of the face and hands
• vision changes

Doctors may recommend early delivery of the baby to resolve preeclampsia. However, this will depend on the stage of the pregnancy and the severity of the condition.

If the condition develops earlier than 37 weeks into the pregnancy, a doctor may instead recommend medical monitoring and medications to lower blood pressure and prevent seizures.

Sinusitis

Sinusitis is a common condition that occurs when there is inflammation of the nasal passages and sinuses. This condition can result from allergies or bacterial or viral infections.

Sinusitis can cause swelling and tenderness around the nose and eyes, along with:

• a cough
• fatigue
• fever
• a headache
• a runny or stuffy nose
• a sore throat

Home remedies for congestion include staying hydrated, applying warm compresses, and using steam therapy. Over-the-counter (OTC) decongestants may ease congestion while pain relievers can alleviate headache symptoms.

If the symptoms do not improve after a few weeks, this may suggest that a person has a bacterial infection that requires antibiotic treatment.

Tooth infection

An abscess or infection in a tooth or the gums can cause swelling around the jawline. Infection also causes pain and tenderness in the affected area.

A dentist will usually prescribe antibiotics to treat the infection, and they may perform a root canal procedure to remove the nerve and damaged pulp from the affected tooth. To reduce discomfort at home, a person can try saltwater mouth rinses and OTC pain relievers.

Superior vena cava syndrome

Superior vena cava (SVC) syndrome is a serious condition that can cause swelling and discoloration in the face and neck.

The superior vena cava is a large vein that carries blood from the head, neck, and upper chest back to the heart. SVC syndrome occurs when this vein becomes obstructed.

The cause of this obstruction is often a tumor pressing against the vein, which can occur in someone with lung or breast cancer. However, there are other possible causes, including tuberculosis and a swollen thyroid.

Symptoms of SVC syndrome can develop gradually over time and may also include:

• shortness of breath
• coughing
• swallowing difficulties
• headaches
• dizziness

People with symptoms of SVC syndrome should see a doctor immediately.

See a doctor if facial swelling persists for more than a few days, or if it occurs alongside symptoms such as pain, redness, or itching.

Call 911 or seek immediate medical assistance if a person displays signs of anaphylaxis, or if they come into contact with a known allergen or venomous insect.

Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that can be fatal. If the person is carrying an epinephrine autoinjector and is unable to administer it themselves, use it on them as the packaging directs.

Seek immediate medical assistance if a person displays symptoms of SVC syndrome. Be particularly aware of these symptoms if the person has a cancer diagnosis.

It is difficult to prevent all cases of face swelling, but doing the following can help:

• avoiding known allergens, including problematic foods and medications
• practicing good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing the teeth regularly to reduce the risk of tooth infection
• eating a healthful diet and reducing stress to boost immunity, which may help prevent some of the infections that cause facial swelling

There are many possible causes of facial swelling, including injuries, infections, and allergic reactions. While some causes are mild and easy to treat, others can be very serious and may require immediate medical attention.

See a doctor for facial swelling that lasts for more than a few days or occurs alongside other symptoms. Seek urgent medical attention for severe symptoms, such as breathing difficulties, low pulse, confusion, or slurred speech. These symptoms may indicate anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction that can be fatal.

If these types of symptoms occur in someone with a known cancer diagnosis, it is also essential to seek medical attention immediately.

Read the article in Spanish.

Causes, treatments, and home remedies

Sunspots are dark-colored spots that can develop on areas of sun-exposed skin. Sunspots are benign and not a sign of cancer. Treatments may help fade or remove them.

Although sunspots are harmless, some people may choose to treat them for cosmetic reasons or to improve their self-esteem.

In this article, we discuss what causes sunspots on the face. We also outline the treatments and home remedies that could help reduce their appearance.

Share on PinterestSunspots may develop on sun-exposed areas of the body.

Sunspots, which doctors may refer to as solar lentigines, are dark brown, flat, rounded spots that may appear on the face or other areas of sun-exposed skin. Sunspots are most likely to develop in the following areas:

• hands
• arms
• shoulders
• back
• feet

The sun emits ultraviolet (UV) radiation that stimulates the production of skin cells called melanocytes. Melanocytes produce a substance called melanin, which gives the skin its color.

When there is a disruption to melanin production, people may develop overpigmented (hyperpigmented) or underpigmented (hypopigmented) areas of skin. Sunspots are hyperpigmented skin blemishes.

Sunspots are not cancerous and do not become cancerous. However, some people may find these skin blemishes unsightly. They may, therefore, seek treatment to lessen the appearance of sunspots and improve their self-esteem.

Researchers note that the enzyme tyrosinase is a key factor in the production of melanin. They suggest that the overactivity of tyrosinase may cause hyperpigmentation or sunspots.

Overactivity of the tyrosinase enzyme can occur as a result of aging. Due to this, some people refer to sunspots as age spots.

According to the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery (ASDS), some people may also have a genetic risk for developing sunspots.

Doctors can treat sunspots by slowing down or stopping the activity of the tyrosinase enzyme. They describe drugs that achieve this as having “antityrosinase activity.” The effects that they have can help lessen the appearance of sunspots.

Two types of treatment are available for sunspots on the face: topical creams and dermatologic techniques.

Topical creams

Topical creams are treatments that people apply to the skin. Several creams contain ingredients that target the tyrosinase enzyme and reduce the appearance of sunspots.

Hydroquinone

Hydroquinone is a popular medicinal treatment for sunspots. However, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have not approved hydroquinone for treating and preventing sunspots due to the drug’s unknown safety profile.

Hydroquinone works as a skin-lightening treatment by blocking the effect of tyrosinase. Getting hydroquinone creams requires a doctor’s prescription.

People who use hydroquinone may experience the following side effects:

• skin irritation
• stinging
• redness
• inflammation
• dry skin
• allergic reactions

Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should avoid using hydroquinone because substantial amounts of the medication absorb into the skin and enter the woman’s bloodstream. Here, it can affect a fetus or a breastfeeding baby.

Tretinoin

Tretinoin is a derivative of vitamin A. Topical tretinoin creams can reduce the effect of photoaging that occurs as a result of exposure to UVB radiation.

Tri-Luma

Tri-Luma is a topical cream containing three active ingredients that can help reduce hyperpigmentation. These are:

• hydroquinone
• tretinoin
• fluocinolone acetonide

Although doctors are unsure how this combination works to reduce sunspots, researchers suggest that tretinoin increases the effectiveness of hydroquinone.

Fluocinolone acetonide is a corticosteroid that dermatologists sometimes prescribe to treat severe inflammatory skin disorders.

Dermatologic techniques

Dermatologic techniques typically involve removing layers of skin from the sunspot to lessen its appearance.

The ASDS recommend the following treatments for sunspots:

• laser resurfacing
• dermabrasion
• chemical peels
• cryosurgery

As age spots are not dangerous, people may decide to lighten them using home remedies or natural products. Some natural products that may help treat age spots include those below.

Extracts of

Haloxylon and Cleome

A 2017 laboratory study investigated the anti-aging skin effects of six different plant species that people commonly use in African folk medicine. In this study, Haloxylon articulatum, locally known as “Remeth,” had the greatest effect on reducing tyrosinase activity.

Cleome arabica, locally known as “Mnitna,” was also able to block tyrosinase activity but not as effectively as H. articulatum. The researchers concluded that both products may be effective natural skin-lightening agents. However, further studies involving human participants are necessary to confirm these effects.

Leaf extracts of

Aloe and Harpephyllum

A 2012 laboratory study investigated the antityrosinase activity of ten different South African plant species.

Four different Aloe species inhibited the production of tyrosinase in vitro. These were Aloe ferox, Aloe aculeata, Aloe pretoriensis, and Aloe sessiliflora. Of these, A. ferox showed the greatest inhibitory effects.

However, leaf extract of Harpephyllum caffrum showed the greatest antityrosinase activity overall. The researchers, therefore, concluded that H. caffrum could be useful as a treatment for sunspots. However, further studies are necessary to confirm its effects in humans.

Licorice extract

Traditional Chinese medicine doctors sometimes recommend licorice extract to lighten the skin. The main component of licorice is a chemical called glabridin. According to a review from 2009, glabridin has antityrosinase activity and can prevent UVB-induced hyperpigmentation.

Other components in licorice extract lighten the skin by dispersing melanin. People using licorice extracts may notice improvements in sunspots without experiencing significant side effects.

Soybean extracts

Researchers have studied the effects of soybeans on skin pigmentation. In an earlier study from 2001, researchers found that soy milk inhibits pathways in skin cells that cause hyperpigmentation. Further studies in humans are necessary to confirm these findings.

The duration of treatment necessary to treat sunspots depends partly on the type of treatment. In general, though, it may take weeks to months for treatment to cause noticeable changes to the skin. For example, the skin-lightening effects of dermabrasion may take 6–8 weeks.

Some treatments may also require multiple procedures. People who opt for chemical peels can repeat the procedure every 6–12 months if necessary.

A person should talk to their doctor or dermatologist to get an approximate time frame for their treatment.

Sunspots are noncancerous skin blemishes that people can develop on the face and other sun-exposed areas of the body.

Although sunspots are harmless, some people may want to get rid of them or lessen their appearance for cosmetic reasons. Dermatologists may recommend topical creams or dermatologic procedures to lighten the skin.

Natural remedies may be effective in reducing the appearance of sunspots. However, further research is necessary to establish their effectiveness.

A dermatologist may give some indication of how long a person’s treatment will take to produce noticeable results.

Quincke’s edema – a dangerous allergic reaction

Author

Mitrofanova Elizaveta Sergeevna

Head of the consultative and diagnostic department

Leading physician

Children’s a allergist

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Quincke’s edema

Quincke’s edema, or angioedema, is a rapid and acute, most often allergic reaction to the action of various factors. This is a fairly common phenomenon that often accompanies hives. According to statistics, urticaria is accompanied by Quincke’s edema at 49% of cases, isolated edema occurs in 11% of patients, and the remaining 40% are urticaria itself. Women are more susceptible to developing the disease than men. Children are also at risk, especially those who have already had allergic manifestations.

Development of angioedema and main symptoms

Like urticaria, Quincke’s edema develops due to the effect on tissues of biologically active substances that are released from mast cells. The main one is histamine. But if with urticaria only the surface layer of the skin is affected, then with angioedema, the lesion is much deeper – to the subcutaneous fat layer.

Dense edema develops in the head, neck, less often on the extremities. It is most pronounced on the face in the area of ​​the lips, cheeks, eyelids, affects the soft palate, tonsils and tongue.

The main manifestations of angioedema:

• swelling and rash;

• difficulty swallowing due to swelling of the pharynx, larynx and tongue;

• cough, hoarseness of voice;

• due to the lack of oxygen and the accumulation of carbon dioxide, at any moment there is a risk of losing consciousness. With swelling of the organs of the gastrointestinal tract, nausea, vomiting, and sharp pains are possible.

The condition develops within a few minutes, so urgent care is needed.

The main mechanism for the development of edema is the expansion of blood vessels under the action of mediators and the release of the liquid part of the blood into the subcutaneous tissue. Nerves under the action of histamine are paralyzed, they are not able to regulate the tone of blood vessels, which is why the latter expand even more, and the condition worsens.

It should be noted that with edema there is no discoloration of the skin and itching, as with urticaria.

Causes of angioedema

The main cause of edema is the action of allergens:

Less commonly, edema develops under the influence of physical factors (mechanical, vibrational, temperature), infection or chronic diseases (endocrinological and others).

There is a hereditary form of angioedema with a different mechanism of development; young men are more likely to experience this condition. It differs from Quincke’s edema in the time of development of symptoms (several hours), the absence of urticaria and the effect of taking antiallergic drugs.

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How to help with angioedema

With the development of angioedema, you need to call an ambulance. It is important to remember the danger of the condition, the speed and unpredictability of its development, up to the likelihood of anaphylactic shock.

Before the doctor arrives, the victim must be provided with air access, if possible, stop the action of the allergen or other factor that caused the reaction, and try to calm down. It is important to take a comfortable position, give an alkaline drink, loosen clothing. If you have a first aid kit at hand, you need to take any anti-allergic agent, as well as a sorbent (for example, activated charcoal), which will help remove the allergen from the body.

Cold can be applied to the site of the swelling. If the cause was an insect bite, then a bandage should be applied above the bite site so that the toxin does not spread.

Treatment of angioedema

First aid is provided on site. In the future, the doctor decides whether hospitalization is needed and in which department.

With mild severity, outpatient treatment is possible, with moderate severity – in the inpatient department (therapy, allergology), with severe severity – in intensive care.

The following groups of drugs are used for treatment, usually in the form of injections:

1. antihistamines;

2. corticosteroid hormones;

3. with diagnosed bronchospasm – bronchodilators;

4. diuretics to accelerate the elimination of the allergen, followed by correction of the volume of fluid with infusion solutions;

5. in case of violation of the cardiovascular system (shock and drop in blood pressure), adrenaline is injected;

6. for the prevention of thrombosis, aminocaproic acid is administered.

After the acute condition has been removed, the issue of treating the underlying disease is resolved, the allergen is established, and antihistamine therapy continues.

Prevention of angioedema

To prevent the development of angioedema, it is necessary:

• follow a hypoallergenic diet;

• avoid factors that provoke swelling;

• clearly know the medications to which an allergy occurs and inform the doctor about it;

• in the presence of chronic diseases, regularly undergo examinations and planned courses of treatment;

• maintain a proper lifestyle with sufficient outdoor exposure and sleep;

• reduce stress.

For any allergic manifestations, it is better to consult a doctor for an examination in order to prevent the development of such a serious condition as Quincke’s edema.

Do not self-medicate. Contact our specialists who will correctly diagnose and prescribe treatment.

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Urticaria and Quincke’s edema in a child: symptoms, diagnosis and treatment

Children’s Medical Center “Pediatrician and Me”

Allergic reactions in children manifest themselves in different ways: a rash on the body, red spots, itching, etc. Sometimes their symptoms pose a direct threat to the child’s life. The most dangerous and common allergic reactions are urticaria and Quincke’s edema. Let’s talk about them in more detail.

What is urticaria?

Urticaria is an acute allergic reaction that is accompanied by the formation of a skin rash in the form of papules or blisters. In appearance, the rash resembles a nettle burn, due to which it got its name.

The main manifestation of urticaria is a rash. It can occur anywhere on the body. In this case, the child may complain of symptoms such as:

• fever or fever;
• severe or moderate itching;
• general weakness.

Sometimes the rash suddenly disappears and reappears after a while. To find out the cause of the reaction, you need to contact a pediatrician or an allergist.

Urticaria occurs:

• Acute. Occurs in response to contact with a specific allergen. The rash is kept on the body for no more than 24 hours.
• Chronic or pigmented (mastocytosis). The rash on the body occurs for a long time. Usually such a reaction is observed against the background of chronic or autoimmune diseases.

A variety of reasons can provoke a skin reaction. Often urticaria occurs in response to food, stressful situations, hygiene products, cold.

Urticaria does not pose a direct threat to the life of the child, however, this condition requires an examination for allergens and a competent treatment regimen.

Quincke’s Edema

This is a sudden allergic reaction requiring emergency medical attention. According to the mechanism of manifestation, Quincke’s edema is similar to urticaria, but it affects deeper tissues. Pathology is accompanied by swelling of soft tissues: lips, eyelids, palate, mucous membranes. In severe cases, the reaction affects the brain.

Edema develops rapidly. The first symptoms are detected within 15-30 minutes after contact with the allergen. Insect bites, food, medicines, household chemicals, etc. can provoke a reaction.

Quincke’s edema affects vital organs, resulting in a risk of death! In difficult cases, edema is accompanied by difficulty in swallowing and breathing, later signs of suffocation and asphyxia develop.

If angioedema is suspected, an ambulance should be called immediately. Prior to her arrival, parents should eliminate the allergen (if possible) and give the child an approved antiallergic agent.

After an attack has subsided, it is important to seek medical attention to determine the cause of the swelling, as well as further treatment and advice from an allergist.

What should I do if my child has an allergy?

If your child has any allergic reaction:

• Visit a pediatrician, dermatologist and allergist.
• Get tested for allergens and parasites.
• Undergo additional examinations (ultrasound of the gastrointestinal tract).

Your child will be given the appropriate treatment based on the results. Only a qualified doctor can make an accurate diagnosis. Remember that any allergic reaction requires mandatory observation and study.

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The article was written under the editorship of an expert, pediatrician, doctor of the highest category Storcheus Natalia Yurievna. To undergo the treatment mentioned in the article materials, you need to contact a specialist. The information in the article is not a call for self-treatment!

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