Can facial puffiness be a sign of high cortisol levels? Expert Answers
A swollen face can not only be a cosmetic issue but it can also be a sign of a serious problem. A swollen face can be a sign of high cortisol levels, which can cause Cushing’s syndrome. We consulted a health expert who explains the symptoms, diagnosis, and effective treatment options. Read on to learn more.
Can puffiness on the face be a sign of high cortisol levels? Expert Answers (Image Courtesy: iStock)
Do you experience it? pouty face This can be worrying. facial swellingWhat is commonly called a puffy face can be a sign of increased cortisol levels, a hormone produced by the adrenal glands Tension. While cortisol is essential for various bodily functions, consistently high levels can cause ‘Cushing’s syndrome’, a condition that causes characteristic physical changes, including facial swelling. So how do you know if your cortisol levels are high? We got in touch with Dr DM Mahajan, Senior Consultant, Dermatology, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, who explained the symptoms to look out for.
The mechanism behind swelling on the face
Opinion of Dr. DM Mahajan High cortisol levels Swelling may contribute to facial swelling through several mechanisms:
– Fluid retention: Cortisol affects the body’s fluid balance, increasing water retention in facial tissues.
– Fat redistribution: Excess cortisol can cause fat accumulation, especially in the face, neck and torso.
– Weakening of connective tissue: Cortisol can weaken collagen, the protein that provides structure to the skin, resulting in puffiness and a rounder appearance.
Signs of increased cortisol levels
Dr. Mahajan explains that patients with high cortisol levels may experience the following symptoms:
– Chandra Mukha: Round, complete form like the full moon.
– Facial redness: due to thinning of the skin and visible blood vessels.
– Acne or oily skin: increased oil production stimulated by cortisol.
– Growth of hair on the face: especially noticeable in women.
However, facial swelling alone is not a sure indicator of high cortisol levels and may be attributed to other factors such as allergies, sinus problems or certain medications.
Diagnosis
Dr DM Mahajan explains that if a health professional suspects high cortisol levels as a cause of facial puffiness and related symptoms, they may recommend the following tests:
– 24-hour urine free cortisol test: Measures cortisol levels in urine throughout the day.
– Late-night salivary cortisol test: Salivary cortisol levels are assessed in the evening, when levels should be lowest.
– Dexamethasone suppression test: evaluates the cortisol response to synthetic steroids.
– Blood cortisol test: Measures cortisol levels in the blood at specific times.
Treatments for High Cortisol Levels
Treatment for increased cortisol levels varies depending on the underlying cause. If Cushing’s syndrome is diagnosed, options may include:
– Medication: To reduce cortisol production.
– Surgery: To remove the tumor producing excess cortisol.
– Radiation therapy: in some cases.
As cortisol levels return to normal, facial swelling usually subsides, although it may take time for the face to fully return to its previous appearance.
Other causes of swelling on the face
Other possible causes of facial swelling include:
– Hypothyroidism
– Allergic reactions
– Kidney or liver disease
– Certain medications: such as steroids
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