| Angioedema |
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of Contents |
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Alternative
Names
Angioneurotic
edema; swelling - eyes
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Definition
The development of large welts below the surface of the skin, especially
around the eyes and lips. The welts may also affect the hands, feet, and
throat. The condition is associated with allergies and histamine release.
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Causes,
Incidence and Risk Factors
Angioedema is a swelling similar to urticaria (hives), but the swelling
is beneath the skin rather than on the surface. There seems to be a hereditary
tendency toward the development of both angioedema and hives (see hereditary
angioedema). Angioedema is associated with the release of histamine and
other chemicals into the bloodstream, which is part of the allergic response.
Common allergens
include:
- medications
- foods
(such as berries, shellfish, fish, nuts, eggs, milk, and others)
- pollen
- animal
dander (scales of shed skin)
- insect
bites
- exposure
to water, sunlight, cold or heat
- emotional
stress
Hives and
angioedema may also occur after infections or illness (including autoimmune
disorders, leukemia, and others).
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Prevention
Avoid known allergens and don't take medications that are not prescribed
for you. |
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Symptoms
- sudden
development of wheals or welts
- usually
located on the eyes and mouth but may also occur on the hands and
feet or in the throat
- itching
or painful
- blanch
and swell if irritated
- localized
edema (eyes and mouth appear swollen)
- abdominal
cramping
- difficulty
breathing
- chemosis
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Signs
& Tests
The diagnosis
is primarily based on the appearance of the skin and a history of exposure
to an irritant/allergen. There may be stridor (crowing sound when inhaling)
if the throat is affected. Rarely, allergy testing may be performed to
determine the causative allergen.
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Treatment
Mild symptoms
may not need treatment. Moderate to severe symptoms may need treatment.
Difficulty breathing or stridor indicates an emergency condition.
Self-care
includes cool compresses or soaks to the area to provide pain relief and
reduce symptoms.
Medications
to reduce the allergic response and associated symptoms include antihistamines,
adrenaline (epinephrine), terbutaline, cimetidine, corticosteroids (see
corticosteroids - oral), sedatives, and tranquilizers.
For an emergency
condition, protect the airway (see breathing difficulties - first aid).
At the hospital, there may be a need for intubation (placement of a tube
in the throat to keep the airway open).
To prevent
recurrence of angioedema avoid irritating the affected area, avoid known
allergens, and avoid temperature extremes. See also allergic reactions.
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Expectations
(Prognosis)
Angioedema may be uncomfortable but it generally is harmless and resolves
itself in a few days |
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Complications
- life threatening
airway obstruction (if swelling occurs in the throat)
- anaphylactic
reaction
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Calling
your doctor/health care provider
Call your health care provider if angioedema is severe and does not
respond to treatment. Go to the emergency room or call the local emergency
number (such as 911) if difficulty breathing, wheezing, stridor, or fainting
occur with an episode of angioedema. |
