Creatine is an amino acid that is made by the body in the kidneys, liver and pancreas. The University of Maryland Medical Center reports that Americans spend an estimated $14 million a year on creatine supplements, primarily for body building. Creatine is considered safe for consumption, but if you develop a puffy face from the supplement, you need to call your doctor or 911 immediately. Facial swelling is a common sign of anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction that can trigger life-threatening symptoms.
Puffy Face
Although rare, Drugs.com states, cases of anaphylaxis have been reported while using creatine. During anaphylaxis your face, lips, mouth and tongue may swell within seconds or a few minutes of using the supplement. A puffy face may lead to more serious complications, such as your throat swelling, restricting your ability to breathe and a sudden drop in blood pressure. It's common that along with facial swelling you will notice hives, clusters of red welts, form on your face.
Cause
The cause of a puffy face is from excessive amounts of histamine begin produced by your body. If you're allergic to creatine, your body will fight against the proteins in the substance with immunoglobulin E antibodies. IgE antibodies trigger a reaction throughout the body, such as your mast cells producing histamine to help protect the body. Histamine released in your soft tissues leads to inflammation and constriction. During a severe allergic reaction most of your soft tissues swell, causing systematic complications.
Identifiable Symptoms
Aside from facial swelling, other symptoms associated with anaphylaxis include: wheezing, abdominal pain, cramping, slurred speech, anxiety, high-pitched breathing sounds, skin redness, palpitations, confusion, cough, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, sinus congestion, itching, fainting, dizziness, lightheadedness, trouble breathing and an increased heart rate, according to MedlinePlus. Most of these symptoms pose a threat to your life and will require emergency medical attention. Do not hesitate to call 911 if you notice any of these symptoms.
Treatment
A puffy face from using creatine that is the result of a severe allergic reaction may require an injection of epinephrine. Epinephrine is an injected medication that will alleviate your symptoms within a few seconds. The drug will treat your symptoms for up to 15 minutes, at which point they may return. If you have an epinephrine pen and you inject yourself, still call 911 or go to the emergency room for evaluation.
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