Moon Face: Causes & Treatment

Overview

• Definition: Moon face, medically known as moon facies, is swelling on the sides of the face, creating a round, puffy appearance.
• Causes: Often a side effect of corticosteroid use or a symptom of health conditions like Cushing's syndrome or hypothyroidism.
• Impact: Generally harmless but can affect self-esteem and mental health.

Possible Causes

Corticosteroids

• Long-term use of corticosteroids like prednisone.
• Prescribed for conditions including:
  • Autoimmune diseases (e.g., lupus, Addison's disease)
  • Blood disorders (e.g., anemia)
  • Certain cancers (e.g., blood cancer, lymphoma)
  • Inflammatory diseases (e.g., arthritis, asthma)
  • Skin conditions (e.g., poison ivy)
• Can lead to hormonal imbalances causing weight gain and water retention.

Cushing's Syndrome

• Occurs when the body produces excess cortisol.
• Symptoms include facial rounding and swelling.
• Causes include:
  • Long-term steroid use
  • Excess hormone production by pituitary gland
  • Tumors (adrenal adenomas, pituitary adenomas, ACTH-producing tumors)

Hypothyroidism

• Caused by insufficient thyroid hormone production.
• Leads to water retention and facial swelling.
• Causes include autoimmune diseases, radiation therapy, thyroid surgery.

Risk Factors

• Corticosteroids: Long-term use increases risk.
• More common in women, particularly for hypothyroidism and Cushing's syndrome.
• Additional risk factors:
  • Hypothyroidism: Age over 60, family history, autoimmune conditions.
  • Cushing's Syndrome: Obesity, unmanaged type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, family history of endocrine tumors.

Care and Treatment

Diagnosis

• Determined by corticosteroid use or through tests measuring cortisol levels (blood tests, urinalysis, CT/MRI scans).

Treatment

• Steroid-Induced: Reducing dosage or switching medications under healthcare provider guidance.
• Cushing's Syndrome: Medication, surgery for tumors, chemotherapy or radiation.
• Hypothyroidism: Treatment with levothyroxine.

Prevention

• Maintain healthy weight, reduce salt intake, stay hydrated, ensure adequate sleep.

When To Call the Doctor

• Seek help if moon face affects self-esteem or mental health.
• Consider support groups for shared experiences.
• Questions to ask healthcare provider:
  • Alternative treatments or medications?
  • Timeline for reduction of symptoms?
  • Recommendations for support groups?

Conclusion

Moon face, while harmless, can significantly affect one's self-image. Address concerns with healthcare professionals for potential treatments or alternative therapies.