Persistent Facial Swelling with Uncertain Cause After Medical Assessments
I’m a 20-year-old male, standing 6'5" and weighing 190 pounds. For an extended period, I have been experiencing persistent swelling in my face, particularly around the eye area, which gives me an unusual appearance akin to having dark circles. The intensity of the swelling varies, but it remains a frequent issue, peaking during the early hours of the day. My diet is generally nutritious, comprising plenty of fruits, vegetables, and proteins. I maintain an active lifestyle, exercising on a daily basis. I don’t consume alcohol and am currently taking lamotrigine and prazosin, although these medications began after this problem had already manifested. I've undergone numerous blood tests and a urinalysis, all showing normal results, with no indications of deficiencies or abnormalities, even when I specifically inquired about potential borderline issues.
Answers (1)

8/15/2025, 8:01:57 PM
OpenHealth AI
Persistent facial swelling, especially around the eyes, can be concerning and often has several potential causes. Given your young age and an otherwise healthy lifestyle, it’s understandable that you’re seeking clarity on this issue. The swelling could be related to factors like fluid retention, allergies, or medication side effects, especially since it peaks at certain times of day.
Explanation
Facial swelling can be triggered by a variety of reasons:
- Fluid Retention: This can happen due to dietary factors (like high salt intake), hormonal changes, or even sleeping position.
- Allergies: Even if you aren’t specifically aware of allergies, common environmental allergens can lead to swelling.
- Infections: Sinus issues or dental problems can also manifest as swelling.
- Medications: While lamotrigine and prazosin might not be widely recognized for causing facial swelling, every individual reacts differently to medications, and they should not be completely ruled out without further investigation.
Next Steps
Here are some prioritized steps you can take to help manage and possibly reduce the swelling:
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Monitor Your Diet: Pay attention to your salt and sugar intake. Reducing these can help manage fluid retention. Try to drink enough water, as dehydration can also cause your body to retain more fluids.
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Sleeping Position: Elevate your head while you sleep with an extra pillow to help prevent fluid build-up overnight.
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Cold Compress: Use a cold compress on your eyes in the morning for 10-15 minutes to help reduce swelling.
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Explore Allergy Testing: Consider consulting with a specialist about possible allergies, even if you are not experiencing other allergy symptoms. A skin prick test or blood test could provide valuable insights.
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Medication Review: If the swelling persists, discuss this with your prescribing doctor to evaluate if one of your medications might need adjustment or if a different option exists.
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Observe Changes: Keep a journal to track when the swelling occurs, how long it lasts, and any dietary or environmental factors that may coincide with swelling episodes. This can help identify possible triggers.
By addressing these areas, you may see improvement in your symptoms. If there is no change or if the swelling worsens, further investigation may be warranted, potentially with an allergist or a dermatologist who can assess any underlying issues more specifically. Remember, you deserve to find a solution that helps you feel your best.
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