How is facial swelling treated?

Swelling may follow an allergic reaction, infection, injury, dental problem, or fluid retention. Angioedema and drug allergy can cause sudden swelling around the lips, eyes, or face. Cellulitis or erysipelas may cause tender, warm, red skin and usually need clinician-directed treatment. Swelling linked with chronic kidney disease needs assessment of fluid balance and the underlying illness.

Note when the swelling began, what part of the face is affected, and any new food, medicine, cosmetic, bite, or injury. Do not re-take a suspected trigger medicine unless a clinician advises it. A cool compress may ease discomfort when breathing is normal, but it does not treat infection or a serious allergic reaction. A clinician may prescribe treatment after examining the skin, mouth, eyes, and airway.

Call emergency services immediately for facial swelling with trouble breathing, wheezing, throat tightness, voice change, difficulty swallowing, dizziness, or widespread hives. This can be anaphylaxis and needs emergency treatment. Seek same-day advice for fever, rapidly spreading redness, severe pain, eye involvement, or swelling after starting a medicine.

Ask what cause is most consistent with the timing and appearance, whether a medicine or allergy trigger should be avoided, what treatment to use, and which changes require emergency action.