Swelling in the left cheek can be a noticeable symptom, indicating various underlying issues. This condition, characterized by an increase in cheek size due to fluid accumulation or inflammation, is common. While some causes are minor and resolve on their own, others are more serious, requiring prompt medical attention. Understanding potential reasons for cheek swelling helps individuals decide when to seek professional advice.
Oral Health Issues
Many instances of left cheek swelling stem from problems within the mouth, often related to teeth or gums. A dental abscess, a bacterial infection forming a pocket of pus at a tooth’s root or in surrounding gums, can cause throbbing pain, temperature sensitivity, and significant swelling in the jaw, gums, or cheek as it spreads.
Impacted wisdom teeth, third molars trapped beneath gums or jawbone, can cause inflammation and swelling. If a wisdom tooth is partially erupted or infected (pericoronitis), it results in pain, redness, and swelling around the jaw and gums. This may be accompanied by a bad taste or difficulty opening the mouth. Severe gum inflammation from conditions like gingivitis or periodontitis can also contribute to cheek swelling if the infection extends.
Salivary gland issues, such as sialadenitis (an infection) or sialolithiasis (salivary gland stones), are another potential cause of cheek swelling near the jawline or ear. These conditions occur when bacteria or stones block saliva flow, leading to pain, tenderness, and swelling, which may worsen during mealtimes. The parotid glands, located in the cheeks, are particularly susceptible.
Infections and Inflammation
Beyond oral health, various infections and inflammatory conditions can manifest as left cheek swelling. Cellulitis, a bacterial infection of the skin and underlying tissues, causes rapid swelling, redness, warmth, and tenderness. This infection can spread quickly on the face, often entering through a break in the skin.
Sinusitis, or a sinus infection, involves inflammation or infection of the sinuses, which are air-filled cavities in the skull. If the maxillary sinuses, located behind the cheeks, become infected, they can cause pain and swelling in the cheek area. This condition often develops after a cold or flu and may also present with headache and a blocked nose.
Certain viral infections can also lead to cheek swelling, with mumps being a notable example. Mumps causes painful swelling of the parotid salivary glands, located under the ears and around the cheeks, which can affect one or both sides of the face. Other symptoms typically include fever, headache, and muscle aches, usually appearing 16 to 18 days after exposure.
Swollen lymph nodes in the neck or under the jaw can also contribute to the perception of cheek swelling. These nodes often enlarge in response to an infection elsewhere in the body as they filter out pathogens. While not directly part of the cheek, their proximity can make the cheek area appear swollen.
Injury and Allergic Reactions
External factors and immune responses can also result in left cheek swelling. Physical trauma, such as a direct blow to the face, a fall, or other injuries, can cause immediate swelling. This occurs due to tissue damage, bruising, and internal bleeding, leading to fluid accumulation. Swelling from minor injuries often resolves, but severe trauma may indicate a fracture.
Insect bites or stings can provoke localized inflammatory reactions that cause swelling. Bites from mosquitoes, bees, or spiders, for instance, introduce substances that trigger the body’s immune response, leading to redness, pain, and swelling at the bite site. The severity of swelling can vary based on individual sensitivity and insect type.
Allergic reactions, particularly angioedema, can cause rapid and significant facial swelling. This swelling affects deeper layers of the skin and mucous membranes, often appearing around the eyes, lips, or cheeks. Triggers include certain foods, medications, or environmental allergens like pollen or pet dander, and onset can be sudden.
Signs That Warrant Medical Attention
While many causes of cheek swelling are minor, certain symptoms signal the need for prompt medical evaluation. Difficulty breathing or swallowing, especially if sudden, indicates a potentially severe issue requiring immediate attention. Rapidly worsening or spreading swelling suggests a quickly progressing infection or allergic reaction.
A high fever, chills, or other flu-like symptoms accompanying the swelling can point to a systemic infection needing professional intervention. Vision changes or swelling affecting the eye, potentially causing a bulging eyelid or redness, are also serious indicators. Severe or incapacitating pain unresponsive to over-the-counter remedies is another warning sign.
Any swelling accompanied by dizziness or confusion warrants urgent medical care. If the cheek swelling does not improve within a day or two, or noticeably worsens over time, consulting a healthcare provider is important for proper diagnosis and treatment.
What to Do While Awaiting Diagnosis
While awaiting a medical diagnosis, several self-care measures can help manage symptoms and provide comfort. Applying a cold compress or ice pack to the swollen area for 15 to 20 minutes at a time, several times a day, can help reduce swelling and discomfort. After the initial 24 to 48 hours, a warm compress may promote blood flow and healing.
Elevating the head, particularly while sleeping, can help reduce fluid accumulation in the face by promoting venous and lymphatic drainage. Using extra pillows or sleeping in a reclined position can achieve this. Staying well-hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids is also advisable, as it supports overall bodily functions and aids in recovery.
Eating soft foods can prevent irritation of the swollen area, especially if the cause is dental or oral. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, may alleviate pain and reduce inflammation, if appropriate. Maintaining good oral hygiene, including gentle brushing and rinsing, is important if a dental issue is suspected. Avoid touching or pressing the swollen area unnecessarily to prevent further irritation or potential infection spread.