Is your face round like the 'moon'? Let's learn about this condition (Moon Facies)!

Do you sometimes look in the mirror and think, "Oh, my face looks a little big and round"? Or has a friend or acquaintance ever told you that? There is a medical term for this gradual rounding of the face. It is called 'Moon Facies'. Although the name may sound strange, most of the time it is nothing to worry about. But it is very important to know exactly what causes this. So, let's talk about this simply and clearly today.

What are these Moon Facies? What exactly is happening?

Simply put, Moon Facies is when fat deposits build up on both sides of your face, giving your face a round, full, and slightly swollen appearance. It looks like a full moon. This is why it gets the name 'Moon Face'. Sometimes, the sides of your face are so full that you can't even see your ears when you look straight ahead. Many people think that this is a normal part of gaining weight or getting older. In fact, this condition can be seen with obesity. But that's not always the case. The main reason for this can be a change in one of our hormones.

The main reason for this is: The hormone 'Cortisol'.

We all have a special hormone called cortisol in our bodies. This is produced by two small triangular glands (adrenal glands) located above our kidneys. This cortisol hormone is very important. This hormone helps in many things such as coping with stress, controlling blood sugar levels, and fighting infections. However, if for some reason this cortisol level remains very high in the body for a long time, this Moon Facies occurs as a side effect. This condition in which cortisol levels continue to be high is called 'Cushing's syndrome' . Therefore, sometimes Moon Facies is also seen as a main symptom of Cushing's syndrome.

What are the causes of Moon Facies?

There are several key factors that contribute to elevated cortisol levels and the formation of Moon Facies. Let's look at them in an easy-to-understand way.

The connection between steroid medication and Moon Facies

This is something that can apply to many people, and it's a very important point. Are you a long-term user of steroid medications, such as prednisone, for arthritis, asthma, skin diseases, or other autoimmune conditions? Then you are more likely to develop Moon Facies. In fact, one of the most common side effects of these steroid medications is a rounding of the face and weight gain. The appearance of these symptoms depends on the dose you take and how long you take it.

Very important!

You should never stop taking steroids or reduce the dosage just because your face has become rounder or you have gained weight. If you stop taking these medications suddenly, your body may not be able to handle them and serious health problems may occur. Therefore, if you notice any changes like this, it is important to talk to your doctor about it and follow his or her advice.

How do I know exactly what my status is?

If you have any doubts about this change in your face, the best thing to do is to see a doctor. He or she will ask you about your symptoms.

• What medications do you take?
• How long has this change been going on?
• Are there any other changes besides the face becoming rounder?

In Cushing's syndrome, other symptoms may be seen along with Moon Facies. For example, fat deposits in areas such as the back of the neck ("buffalo hump"), the abdomen, and thin limbs. The doctor will check for other symptoms like these. If necessary, the doctor may order blood tests and urine tests to check your cortisol levels. Also, if there is a suspicion that the cause is something like a tumor, an MRI or CT scan may be ordered.

What are the treatments for this?

The treatment for this depends entirely on what is causing your Moon Facies.

• If the cause is steroid medication: Your doctor will try to give you the lowest effective dose. Sometimes, they may try to reduce these symptoms by telling you to take the medication every other day. Or they may suggest a different treatment.
• If the cause is a tumor: If the cause is a tumor in the brain, adrenal gland, or elsewhere, surgery to remove the tumor can usually cure the condition.
• Other reasons include: In some cases, medications and radiation therapy may also be used.

The most important thing is to seek treatment according to medical advice, regardless of the cause. Moon Facies, Cushing's syndrome, cortisol, steroids, facial swelling, prednisone, Sri Lanka Health