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Insect Bites -

Venom or saliva from insect bites can cause localized swelling and inflammation. This is due to the body's immune system response to the foreign substances introduced by the bite.

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Insect Bites -

As well as hives or swelling of the cheeks, lips, or eyes, an insect bite may cause tingling mouth and in more severe cases, nausea and vomiting.

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Allergies -

Raise your hand if you dread allergy season! Exposure to allergens like pollen, year-round allergens such as pet dander, or certain foods can trigger facial swelling. 

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Allergies -

When the body is allergic to something it releases histamines. The histamines can cause inflammation and fluid accumulation in facial tissues.

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Dental issues -

Infections or abscesses in the teeth or gums can cause swelling in the face, particularly around the jaw and cheeks, as the body responds to the infection.

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Dental issues -

The first signs of tooth abscess include heightened sensitivity to hot and cold foods and drinks, and swelling of the gum where that tooth is in the mouth.

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Sinusitis -

Sinusitis is an uncomfortable condition where the inside of the sinuses becomes inflamed, leading to an over-production of mucus.

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Sinusitis -

Inflammation of the sinuses can lead to swelling around the eyes, cheeks, and forehead, often accompanied by pain and pressure.

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Cellulitis -

Cellulitis is a bacterial skin infection. It can lead to redness, swelling, and pain in the affected area, including the face. 

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Cellulitis -

Cellulitis is a deep infection. It usually affects the hands and legs, but it can also develop around the eyes and mouth. It requires medical treatment to prevent complications.

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Hormonal changes -

Fluctuations in hormone levels, such as those during pregnancy or menstrual cycles, can cause fluid retention and swelling in the face.

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Thyroid problems -

Thyroid hormones control many of the body's key functions, including temperature, breathing, and heart rate. Thyroid issues cause a range of symptoms, whether there is too little (hypo) or too much (hyper) thyroid hormone being produced.

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Thyroid problems -

Hypothyroidism can cause facial swelling as a result of reduced metabolism and fluid retention in the body's tissues. In contrast, hyperthyroidism, when excessive amounts of thyroid hormone are produced, can cause swelling, bulging eyes, and flushing.

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Cushing's syndrome -

Although it's a fairly rare disorder, Cushing's syndrome is caused by a problem with the body's production of cortisol. 

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Cushing's syndrome -

Prolonged exposure to high levels of cortisol, leading to characteristic facial swelling known as "moon face," along with other symptoms like weight gain and high blood pressure.

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Conjunctivitis -

Inflammation of the conjunctiva, giving the white of the eye a pink appearance, happens due to a common condition called conjunctivitis.

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Conjunctivitis -

Conjunctivitis is caused by increase swelling and blood flow to the slera (white) of the eye, but this can also cause secondary swelling around the eyes and eyelids.

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Kidney Problems -

Kidney diseases can lead to fluid retention and swelling in various parts of the body, including the face, due to the kidneys' reduced ability to filter and eliminate fluids.

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Alcohol consumption -

Excessive alcohol intake can lead to dehydration and subsequent fluid retention, causing puffiness and swelling in the face.

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Facial injury -

Physical injury to the face, such as a blow or fall, can cause swelling due to inflammation and fluid accumulation. It's a normal part of the healing process.

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Dermatitis -

Skin inflammation caused by allergic reactions, irritants, or autoimmune conditions can result in facial swelling, redness, and itching.

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Sleep apnea -

Sleep apnea is a disorder where sufferers stop and start breathing while sleeping. It can cause a number of health problems including high blood pressure and heart trouble.

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Sleep apnea -

This sleep disorder can cause fluid retention and swelling in the face, particularly around the eyes, due to repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep.

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Nutritional deficiencies -

Lack of essential nutrients, such as protein, can lead to fluid imbalance and swelling in the face as the body struggles to maintain proper fluid distribution.

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Lymphedema -

Blockage in the lymphatic system can cause fluid buildup and swelling in various body parts, including the face, due to impaired lymph drainage.

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Mumps -

Swelling of parotid glands, i.e. the glands that produce saliva, located on either side of the face just below the ears, is one of the first symptoms of mumps.

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Mumps -

This infection of the salivary glands leads to swelling in the cheeks and jaw area. It can cause pain, fever, and difficulty swallowing.

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Nephrotic Syndrome -

This kidney disorder causes the body to excrete too much protein in the urine, leading to fluid retention and swelling, particularly noticeable in the face and around the eyes.

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Medication Side Effects -

Some types of medications, in particular corticosteroids, blood pressure drugs, and NSAIDs, can cause facial swelling as a side effect.
Sources: (Mayo Clinic) (Web MD) (Healthline) (MedlinePlus) (Cleveland Clinic)
See also: A guide to Chinese face mapping

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