5 common causes of facial swelling when waking up

Some people suffer from facial swelling upon waking up from sleep. This is a condition linked to several health and lifestyle factors, most notably dehydration, allergies, sleeping position, hormonal changes, and poor blood circulation.

Dehydration or excessive sodium intake are among the most common causes, as lack of drinking water causes the body to retain fluids, while eating salty and processed foods disrupts the fluid balance, which results in visible puffiness in the face.

Seasonal or environmental allergies and sinus congestion also contribute to fluid buildup around the eyes and face, and are often accompanied by symptoms such as sneezing, itchy eyes, and stuffy nose.

Among the less common causes is poor circulation associated with chronic venous insufficiency, where defective vein valves lead to fluid retention in the body. Although this condition is usually associated with swollen legs and a feeling of heaviness, it may also cause puffiness in the face due to the redistribution of fluids while lying down.

Sleeping position also affects the appearance of the face in the morning, as lying down for long periods may lead to fluid accumulation in the facial area, which makes raising the head with an additional pillow a useful option to reduce swelling.

The role of hormonal changes cannot be overlooked, especially during the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, or menopause, as hormonal fluctuations affect the way the body deals with fluids, causing fluid retention and facial swelling.

Specialists confirm that recurring facial swelling, especially if it is accompanied by swelling in the legs or protruding veins, requires consulting a doctor to evaluate the possibility of venous insufficiency or underlying health causes, as early diagnosis contributes to improving the quality of life and reducing possible complications.