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

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

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:

• Pain, and where it hurts
• How long the swelling has lasted
• What makes it better or worse
• If you have other symptoms

• Allergic reaction (such as allergic rhinitis, hay fever, or a bee sting)
• Angioedema
• Blood transfusion reaction
• Cellulitis
• Conjunctivitis with swelling around the eye(s)
• Drug reactions, including those due to aspirin, penicillin, sulfa, glucocorticoids, and others
• Head, nose, or jaw surgery
• Injury or trauma to the face (such as a burn)
• Malnutrition (when severe)
• Obesity
• Sinusitis
• Stye with swelling around the infected eye
• Tooth abscess

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.