Angioedema(Angioneurotic Edema; Hereditary Angioedema)
by
Krisha McCoy, MS DefinitionAngioedema is swelling under the surface of the skin with or without redness. It is very common. Angioedema can occur around the eyelids and lips, or on the face, hands, feet, or genitalia. It can cause swelling of the airways, so it is important to seek medical care if you think you have angioedema. CausesAngioedema is often associated with hives. It can be caused by:
Risk FactorsThis condition is more common in women and people who are 30-60 years of age. Factors that may increase your chances of developing angioedema include:
SymptomsSymptoms may include:
DiagnosisYou will be asked about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. Your bodily fluids and tissues may be tested to look for other potential causes. This can be done with:
Images may be taken of your abdomen. This can be done with an abdominal ultrasound. TreatmentTalk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you. Minor episodes of angioedema may not need treatment. However, it is important to make sure the swelling does not spread to the airway, which can be life-threatening. Treatment options include the following:
PreventionTo help reduce your chances of developing this condition, avoid substances or triggers that have caused hives or angioedema in the past. RESOURCES:American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology http://www.aaaai.org Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America http://www.aafa.org CANADIAN RESOURCES:Canadian Dermatology Association https://dermatology.ca Canadian Society of Allergy and Clinical Immunology http://csaci.ca References:
Acute urticaria. EBSCO DynaMed Plus website. Available at:
http://www.dynamed.com/topics/dmp~AN~T115276/Urticaria
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Updated July 27, 2017. Accessed October 2, 2017.
Beltrani VS. Angioedema: some "new" thoughts regarding idiopathic angioedema. In: Greaves MW, Kaplan AP, eds.
Marcel Dekker.
New York, NY; 2004: 421.
Angioedema. EBSCO DynaMed Plus website. Available at:
http://www.dynamed.com/topics/dmp~AN~T566511/Angioedema
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Updated May 3, 2016. Accessed October 2, 2017.
Last reviewed September 2018 by
EBSCO Medical Review Board
Marcin Chwistek, MD Last Updated: 2/7/2018 | ||
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