Doctors shocked after man's head swells to double the size

Doctors were shocked when a 33-year-old man returned from the beach with a swollen head.

Caner Arik spent a few days enjoying the sun in the city of Zonguldak, Turkey. That is until 23 August, when he looked in the mirror and saw that his features were distorted.

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Caner quickly went to the Zonguldak Bulent Ecevit University (ZBEU) Health Application and Research Centre and was examined by multiple professionals.

After investigation, doctors found that Caner's swollen face was caused by heat oedema, which is typically seen on the feet or hands.

For anyone not familiar with the ailment, heat oedema is caused by a build-up of fluids that move into the hands and legs.

Gravity then causes blood vessels to expand and results in swelling.

Speaking of the baffling case that occurred on Caner's head, Dr. Hocagi said: “We have never encountered such a case before.

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“We will publish this situation as a rare heat-induced skin oedema on the scalp at an international congress.

“After excluding the causes of localised oedema in the body, we decided that the swelling on the forehead of the patient was a 'heat oedema'. We started treatment for this."

The health care professional went on to add that the incident occurred during a particularly humid period in Turkey.

"This happened when our patient was lying by the sea, while he was wearing a hat that would prevent circulation.

"That's why it's an interesting case," Dr. Hocagi added.

Caner's case is now being studied by doctors, as the man is said to be recovering at home.

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Heat oedemas can often occur in hot countries and frequent exercise/massage of the affected area can help reduce symptoms.

According to the Mayo Clinic: "Mild oedema usually goes away on its own, particularly if you help things along by raising the affected limb higher than your heart.

"More-severe oedema may be treated with drugs that help your body expel excess fluid in the form of urine (diuretics). One of the most common diuretics is furosemide (Lasix). However, your doctor will determine whether these types of medications are a good option for you based on your personal medical history.

"Long-term management typically focuses on treating the underlying cause of the swelling. If oedema occurs as a result of medication use, your doctor may adjust your prescription or check for an alternative medication that doesn't cause oedema."