Quick answer
What could swollen face mean?
A swollen face is usually caused by an allergic reaction, a dental infection or sinusitis. Allergic swelling of the lips or eyes with any breathing difficulty is anaphylaxis and needs an immediate 999 call. A dental abscess that spreads into the face also needs prompt treatment, so see a dentist or GP quickly.
Understanding facial swelling
Facial swelling has many possible causes, and two things matter most when judging how serious it is — how quickly the swelling came on, and whether breathing is affected. Dental infections and allergic reactions are among the most common causes.
Causes of facial swelling
An allergic reaction can make the face swell, and in its most severe form — anaphylaxis — the swelling comes with breathing difficulty and is a medical emergency. Cellulitis, a skin infection, and a dental abscess can both cause facial swelling that needs treatment.
Angioedema is deeper swelling in the tissues beneath the skin. It can be allergic, or it can be a side effect of ACE inhibitor blood pressure medicines.
Self-care for mild facial swelling
Antihistamines can help if the swelling is caused by a mild allergy. If the swelling seems to be coming from a tooth, arrange a dental review so the source of the infection can be treated.
When facial swelling is an emergency
Anaphylaxis — facial swelling with difficulty breathing — needs a 999 call straight away, and adrenaline should be used immediately if it has been prescribed. During pregnancy, facial swelling that comes with a headache needs urgent maternity assessment, because it can be a sign of pre-eclampsia.
Common questions about swollen face
- What does an allergic reaction on the face look like?
- An allergic reaction often makes the lips and the area around the eyes swell. If there is any difficulty breathing alongside the swelling, treat it as an emergency and call 999.
- Can a tooth abscess cause facial swelling?
- Yes, a dental abscess can cause facial swelling alongside dental pain. It needs treatment with antibiotics and a prompt dental review so the infected tooth can be dealt with.
- What is angioedema?
- Angioedema is deep swelling in the tissues beneath the skin, and it often affects the face. It can be part of an allergic reaction, or it can be triggered by ACE inhibitor blood pressure medicines.
- Is facial swelling in pregnancy serious?
- Facial swelling together with a headache during pregnancy should be treated as pre-eclampsia until proven otherwise. It needs urgent assessment by a maternity team.