What should you know about skin infection face swelling?

Cellulitis is a bacterial infection of deeper skin that can cause a tender, warm, red and swollen area. Angioedema can cause sudden swelling, often around the eyes, lips or mouth, and may occur with an allergic reaction. Hives are raised, itchy patches that can accompany swelling but are not the same as a skin infection.

The pattern, speed of change, pain, warmth, fever and any wound or dental problem help a clinician decide what is happening. A photo or online description cannot reliably distinguish these causes.

Arrange medical advice promptly when facial swelling is painful, hot, spreading or associated with fever, pus or feeling unwell. Do not squeeze a boil or apply irritating products. Note when the swelling began, whether it is spreading, recent bites or procedures, and any new medicine or food exposure.

Take prescribed treatment exactly as directed and keep follow-up if the area is not improving. Avoid sharing towels, cosmetics or razors while a clinician is assessing a possible infection.

Seek emergency help for swelling of the lips, tongue or throat, trouble breathing or swallowing, dizziness, confusion, severe headache, eye pain or vision change. Rapidly spreading redness, severe pain, high fever or a person who looks seriously unwell also needs urgent assessment.

Ask whether the pattern fits cellulitis, angioedema or hives, whether an examination or swab is needed, which symptoms should trigger emergency care, and how soon improvement should be expected.