About Angioedema
Angioedema is a temporary swelling that occurs below the surface of the skin and in the surrounding tissues. It can also affect the gastrointestinal tract and upper airways. The swelling is caused by leaking blood vessels in the affected area.
Angioedema can be associated with hives, which are itchy and raised welts on the skin. Common causes of angioedema include allergic reactions to food, medications, or environmental allergens like pollen or pet dander. In some cases, the underlying cause may be unknown. Certain areas of the body, such as the eyelids, lips, and tongue, are more prone to angioedema.
Inherited angioedema is a form of the condition that is passed down from parent to child, while acquired angioedema has different causes. If you experience symptoms such as difficulty breathing or swallowing, it is important to seek immediate medical attention.
Angioedema, which causes swelling under the skin, can happen for different reasons: it may be allergic, hereditary (passed down in families), or acquired (developed later in life due to other factors).
Non-modifiable risk factors for angioedema cannot be controlled or changed. They include:
- Ethnicity: People of Hispanic and African American descent have a higher risk of developing angioedema.
- Cardiopulmonary disease: Individuals with pre-existing heart or lung conditions may be more prone to angioedema.
- History of smoking: Previous smoking habits can increase the risk of developing angioedema.
- Previous angioedema: Individuals who have experienced angioedema in the past are at a higher risk of developing it again.
Modifiable risk factors for angioedema can be influenced by individual habits and lifestyle. They include:
- Allergies: Living with allergies can put a person at a higher risk of developing angioedema. Identifying and managing allergies can help reduce the risk.
- Medications: Certain medications, such as ACE inhibitors, can trigger angioedema in some individuals. It is important to discuss medication options and risks with your healthcare professional.
It is essential to remember that these risk factors increase the likelihood of developing angioedema but do not guarantee its occurrence. If you have concerns about your risk or experience symptoms, consult your healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.
The most common early symptoms of angioedema include:
- Swelling: It often occurs around the eyes, lips, and tongue, but may also occur in the feet, hands, or genitals.
- Itchiness: Allergic angioedema can be associated with itchiness.
As angioedema progresses or becomes more severe, additional symptoms may occur, such as:
- Fainting
- Abdominal cramping
- Dizziness
- Shortness of breath
In more severe cases, people with angioedema may experience swelling of the airways, making it difficult to breathe, and an unsafe drop in blood pressure. Symptoms to watch for that could indicate severe angioedema include:
- Voice changes
- Throat or tongue swelling
- Collapsing
- Severe and sudden trouble breathing
- Feeling faint
- Stridor (a harsh, vibrating noise when breathing)
It is important to seek immediate medical attention if experiencing severe symptoms or having trouble breathing. Prompt treatment is necessary for this medical condition.
To diagnose angioedema, the following examinations, tests, and procedures are commonly performed:
- Physical exam: The healthcare provider will look for physical signs of swelling.
- Medical history: The doctor will ask you about your symptoms, medical and family history, and any recent exposure to triggers that may have caused an allergic reaction.
- Blood tests: These may include levels of complement components like C2 and C4. Abnormal results can indicate an underlying autoimmune disease or help determine the best course of treatment.
Additional examinations, tests, and procedures to determine the stage or severity of angioedema may include:
- Imaging studies: Your doctor may recommend imaging studies such as X-rays or MRIs to look for any abnormalities in specific body parts.
- Allergy testing: If an allergic trigger is suspected, allergy testing may be performed to identify specific allergens that could be causing the angioedema.
- Biopsy: In some cases, a biopsy may be necessary to examine a small sample of tissue from the affected area for further evaluation.
Remember, the specific examinations, tests, and procedures recommended may vary depending on individual circumstances. It is important to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and guidance.
The goals of treatment for Angioedema are to alleviate symptoms during an attack, reduce the frequency of attacks, and improve quality of life. Here are the various treatment options and how they work to achieve these goals:
Medications:
- C1 inhibitors: These medications help alleviate symptoms by inhibiting the production of bradykinin, a substance that triggers swelling.
- Ecallantide and Icatibant: These medications also target bradykinin and help reduce swelling during an acute attack.
Therapeutic procedures:
- Intubation or tracheotomy: In severe cases where breathing is compromised, these procedures may be performed to open the airway.
Health behavior changes:
- Lifestyle modifications: Stopping smoking, managing weight, checking cholesterol levels regularly, resting when necessary, getting regular exercise, managing stress, and following a healthy diet may help prevent symptoms and lower the risk of complications.
Other treatments:
- Fresh frozen plasma: This contains the missing protein (C1 inhibitor) in hereditary cases of angioedema and can help prevent symptoms.
- Specialized medications: These may be prescribed to prevent angioedema symptoms in hereditary cases.
It's important to note that some treatments mentioned above may not be approved in all countries. Always consult with your healthcare professional before considering any specific treatment.
Medication dosing may be affected by many factors. Check with your health care professional about dosing for your individual situation. Other side effects can occur. Check with your health care professional or read the information provided with your medication for additional side effect information.