Pimple Popping Nightmare Leads to Facial Paralysis and Urgent Care Visit

In August 2025, Alisha Monaco, a 32-year-old mother of three, experienced a harrowing ordeal after attempting to pop a pimple near her nostril. Just hours after the incident, Monaco woke up in excruciating pain, with half of her face drooping and her vision blurred on that same side.

Monaco, who is prone to cystic acne, had initially decided not to touch the pimple. However, her husband convinced her to give it a try. After several unsuccessful attempts, Monaco's right ear suddenly popped, which she described as a "warning sign." Undeterred, she continued to push on the blemish, unaware of the potential consequences.

Upon researching her symptoms, Monaco learned about the "triangle of death," an area on the face that is directly connected to the brain. Popping a pimple in this region can lead to a serious infection that could potentially travel to the brain. Alarmed, Monaco rushed to urgent care, where she was prescribed a course of antibiotics and steroids.

Fortunately, Monaco's swelling and other symptoms began to subside within the first 12 hours, and she fully recovered within three days. She has since shared her experience on social media, hoping to warn others about the dangers of popping pimples in this high-risk area of the face.