Facial swelling in the morning can mostly be prevented with minor changes in diet and lifestyle. However, if the swelling on the face you see in the mirror does not go away for a long time, reaches an uncomfortable size, or if there is a lump in a part of the face that appears suddenly, you should of course consult a doctor. If there is no underlying health problem, what could be the reasons for waking up in the morning with a very swollen face? We got information from Sinan Akkurt…
Sleep: Waking up with a swollen face is due to normal fluid retention during the night for many people. But swelling can become even more obvious if a person sleeps too little or too much. Lying down causes fluid to collect on the face, and a person’s sleeping position can also exacerbate this. For example, lying on your stomach can trigger further swelling of the face. In this case, it will be useful to keep your head upright after waking up.
Make-up: Sleeping without removing make-up can cause a skin reaction called contact dermatitis. This can cause redness, irritation or swelling of the face and eyes. Most events are nothing to worry about, but those with significant symptoms such as swollen eyes or trouble opening their eyes need medical attention. Take care not to sleep without removing your make-up.
Foods: Eating certain foods in the evening or at night causes extra bloating in the morning. In general, foods high in sodium can cause the body to retain more water. Although the main source of sodium is salt, mineral waters, sea artifacts, especially anchovies, cheese, red and green peppers, hazelnuts, peanuts, walnuts, celery and carrots contain sodium. A diet rich in sodium makes people thirsty, so they drink more water, but the body can collect this excess water in different areas, including the face. We can list some common high-sodium foods that should be avoided, especially in the evening diet: hamburgers, french fries, fast food such as pizza, processed meats such as bacon and sausage, sushi, soy sauce meals, chips, pretzels…
Alcohol: Alcohol causes a person to urinate more, which can lead to mild dehydration. The body can retain water in response to this.
Menstruation: Menstruation often causes fluid retention, and before an approaching period, a person may notice swelling on his face when he wakes up.
Allergies: Sometimes facial swelling in the morning can be caused by an allergy to dust, fluff or pollen inhaled at night. The person may not notice any random symptoms until they wake up. Other symptoms of an allergic response such as congestion, runny nose, sneezing, and itchy or watery eyes may indicate that allergies are causing the swelling.
Sinus infection: You may wake up with a swollen face in the morning because of a sinus infection. In this case, symptoms such as facial pain and tenderness, post-nasal drip, frontal headache, toothache, fever and nasal congestion will also be seen.
Hypothyroidism: Thyroid failure is also among the causes of facial puffiness. Hypothyroidism can also cause weight gain, fatigue, hair loss, cold intolerance, and dry skin.
Sinan Akkurt said, “If you are uncomfortable with the swelling on your face when you wake up in the morning, one of the formulas you can apply at home is to apply cold water to your face or to apply a cold compress with a towel. Also, applying coffee grounds or a chilled tea bag to areas of swelling can help stimulate the skin and reduce swelling by constricting blood vessels. On the other hand, it is also a good idea to start the day with training.” she says… And she adds: “If you don’t want to wake up with a swollen face in the morning, avoid foods high in sodium. Avoid refined carbohydrates, especially late in the evening or later at night. Do not eat before bedtime. Avoid sleeping too little or too much. Try to sleep on your back. Drink enough water throughout the day. Avoid alcohol consumption as well.”
