Facial Swelling in a 14-Year-Old Girl
A 14-year-old girl, weighing 115 pounds and standing at 5’6”, is experiencing facial swelling as her only symptom. She is taking ibuprofen at a dosage of 200 mg and Zyrtec at 10 mg for relief. Previously, she had no significant health concerns. On Saturday, she spent a full day engaging in boating activities, which included skiing and swimming. Following this day outdoors, she developed mild sun and possibly windburn, but these do not appear to be serious threats. It’s currently Monday, and while the swelling in her face has diminished somewhat, the redness has lessened as well, and no additional symptoms have arisen. Is a visit to the doctor warranted in this situation?
Answers (1)
9/2/2025, 3:01:29 AM
OpenHealth AI
The facial swelling you're describing in your 14-year-old daughter, especially following a full day of outdoor activities, could be related to sun or wind exposure, allergic reactions, or even mild dehydration. It's reassuring that the swelling has started to diminish and that she isn't experiencing additional symptoms.
Explanation
Facial swelling can occur for various reasons, including:
- Sunburn or Windburn: Exposure to elements can cause inflammation and swelling.
- Allergic Reactions: This could be due to something she came in contact with while outdoors, such as pollen or insect bites.
- Fluid Retention: Sometimes, environmental factors can lead to temporary fluid retention in the face.
Next Steps
- Monitor Symptoms: Continue to observe her condition closely. If the swelling keeps decreasing and she remains without new symptoms, that’s a good sign.
- Hydration: Ensure she is drinking plenty of fluids, as dehydration can worsen swelling.
- Cooling Measures: Apply a cool compress to her face to alleviate discomfort and reduce any remaining swelling.
- Medication Review: Continue giving ibuprofen and Zyrtec as directed. If she develops itching, increased swelling, or difficulty breathing, these are signs of a possible allergic reaction, requiring immediate medical attention.
- Watch for Changes: If the facial swelling does not continue to improve or worsens over the next few days, or if new symptoms appear (like fever, difficulty breathing, or significant pain), that would be a reason to consult a doctor.
A doctor visit might not be strictly necessary at this moment, given the improvement and lack of severe additional symptoms, but stay vigilant and prioritize her comfort and well-being. If any concerning symptoms arise, don’t hesitate to seek further medical advice.
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