Angioedema is characterized by superficial swelling occurring in various parts of the body, including the face, throat, larynx, uvula, arms, hands, or feet. It can also affect the genitals and intestines.
The affected areas might be red, painful, or warm, exhibiting large, thick, solid welts. If the condition impacts the lower intestine, stomachaches are expected. Angioedema can be hazardous if it causes swelling of the tongue or throat, potentially obstructing airways and making breathing challenging.
Types of Angioedema
There are four primary types of angioedema, each with distinct causes and triggers:
Allergic Angioedema. This is the most common form of the condition and can be triggered by an allergic reaction to foods like shellfish, peanuts, tree nuts, eggs, and milk. Other triggers include pollens, animal dander, latex, insect stings, and medications such as penicillin, aspirin, and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Hereditary Angioedema (HAE). HAE is a rare condition resulting from the body’s inability to produce enough C1 esterase inhibitors, a blood protein. This deficiency allows blood to leak into various tissues, causing angioedema.
Acquired Angioedema. Sharing similar symptoms with HAE, acquired angioedema typically occurs after the age of 40 and is linked to a compromised immune system. Unlike HAE, it is not hereditary.
Idiopathic Angioedema. This type denotes swelling of unknown origin. Potential causes may involve anxiety, stress, minor infections, and extreme temperatures.
Symptoms of Angioedema
The signs and symptoms may include:
- Puffy or swollen face, especially around the eyes, mouth, lips, and tongue.
- Digestive issues due to swollen intestines, including abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting.
- Swollen hands, feet, or genitals.
- Dizziness or fainting.
- Swelling in the mouth, throat, or airways, making it difficult to speak and breathe.
Who Can Get Angioedema?
The likelihood of developing angioedema increases if you:
- Have had hives, allergic reactions, or angioedema previously
- Suffer from conditions such as lupus, lymphoma, thyroid disease, hepatitis, HIV, cytomegalovirus, Epstein-Barr virus, or have had a blood transfusion
- Have a family history of hives
- Have asthma
- Have taken NSAIDs
- Have used ACE inhibitors
- Have undergone recombinant tissue plasminogen activator therapy for a stroke
Treatment
Typically, angioedema resolves on its own within a few days. However, if treatment is necessary, it may involve:
- Antihistamines and oral corticosteroids to reduce swelling and inflammation
- Medications that suppress the immune system if antihistamines and corticosteroids are ineffective
- Leukotriene antagonists, a type of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that reduces pain and swelling
- Blood protein controllers for hereditary angioedema
If a medication is the cause, your doctor will likely prescribe a different drug better suited to your condition.
Prevention
Preventing allergic episodes of angioedema involves avoiding known triggers such as specific foods, medications, or other circumstances that cause swelling. Keeping a diary to note foods, situations, and triggers related to your symptoms can be beneficial if you are unsure of the causes.
Your doctor may recommend taking antihistamines daily rather than on an as-needed basis. This can result in fewer episodes, reduced severity, and enhanced safety.