From the Guidelines
A facial contusion should be treated with immediate application of ice for 15-20 minutes every 1-2 hours during the first 24-48 hours to reduce swelling and pain, as this approach has been shown to improve outcomes in terms of morbidity and quality of life 1. The symptoms of a facial contusion typically include pain, swelling, and discoloration of the affected area, which can range from red to purple to green-yellow as the bruise heals 1. Some key points to consider in the treatment of facial contusions include:
- Applying ice to reduce swelling and pain, as mentioned earlier
- Taking over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen (Tylenol) at 325-650mg every 4-6 hours as needed, not exceeding 3000mg daily, while avoiding aspirin and NSAIDs like ibuprofen for the first 24 hours to minimize the risk of bleeding 1
- Elevating the head while resting to minimize swelling
- Switching to warm compresses for 15-20 minutes several times daily after 48 hours to help with healing
- Seeking medical attention if severe pain, vision changes, difficulty breathing, persistent headache, or if the bruise doesn't improve after two weeks are experienced, as these may indicate more serious injuries requiring professional evaluation 1 It is essential to note that while most facial contusions resolve within 2-14 days, some may require further evaluation and treatment to prevent long-term complications and improve quality of life 1.
From the Research
Symptoms of Facial Contusion
- A facial contusion, also known as a bruise, can cause various symptoms, including pain, swelling, and discoloration of the affected area 2
- The severity of the symptoms can vary depending on the severity of the injury
Treatment Options for Facial Contusion
- Treatment for facial contusions typically involves managing pain and reducing swelling, and may include the use of cold compresses, pain medication, and rest 2
- In some cases, more severe facial injuries, such as fractures, may require surgical intervention 3, 4, 5
- Antibiotic prophylaxis may be used to prevent infection in patients with facial fractures 4, 5
- Topical treatments, such as antimicrobial agents, may be used to promote wound healing and prevent infection in patients with facial burns 6
Management of Facial Injuries
- Patients with facial injuries should be assessed in a systematic way to avoid missing any injuries, and should receive prompt treatment to minimize the risk of complications 3
- The use of computed tomography (CT) imaging is considered the gold standard for radiographic evaluation of facial injuries 3
- Early diagnosis and treatment of soft tissue and bony injuries can help expedite healing and minimize scarring and disfigurement 2