Angioedema

What is Angioedema?

Angioedema, also known as Quincke’s edema is described as the rapid swelling of dermis (skin), mucus, and submucosal tissues. It usually affects the deeper part of the skin, commonly around the face and lips. It is also defined as an acute mast of cell–mediated reaction caused by exposure to drug, venom, pollen, or animal allergens. The swelling (localized) is due to vascular and intravascular fluid leakages. The skin around the eyes, lips, genitals, hands, and feet swell and develops into red, itchy patches called hives or urticaria on the skin surface.

Angioedema is classified into two main types: Acquired Angioedema (AAE) and Hereditary Angioedema (HAE). AAE is usually caused by allergy, and can be a side-effect of certain medicines like ACE inhibitors. HAE is caused by genetic mutations inherited from the family. These are distinguished by underlying genetic abnormalities.

Symptoms

The main prevalent symptom of angioedema is swelling which develops below the skin surface. The swelling occurs on face around eyes, lips, mouth, hands, and feet, and in certain cases it is genital. The swelling then develops into red, itchy patches called urticaria (hives). The rashes subside in a few days, but skin may look painful. Common symptoms of angioedema are:

Difficulty in breathing
Red and irritated eyes (conjunctivitis)
Abdominal pain.
Feeling sick and fatigued.
Diarrhea and nausea.
Fainting and dizziness

Causes

Some of the most probable causes of angioedema include:

Allergies
Medication
Genetics
Vigorous exercise
Stress and anxiety
Minor infections

Risks

Individual have high risk of Angioedema if they have:

Previous history
Allergic reactions
Disorder associated with angioedema such as lupus, lymphoma, or thyroid disease
Family history or hereditary angioedema

Preventions

To prevent this disease, one should take care of the following things:

Eating healthy
Resting enough
Walking, and doing physical workout

How is it diagnosed?

At Medanta, our doctor may examine the affected area and will take details of the symptoms and past medical history. The details will include probable symptoms which occur, or worsen later. Few tes...

Routine blood test like CBC
Electrolytes enzyme test
Renal function test
Allergy test
Skin prick test
Blood test

How is it treated?

At Medanta, the treatment helps in getting relief from intense itching, and discomfort that persists.

Anti-itching drugs

Standard treatment- antihistamines are prescribed to reduce itching, swelling, and other symptoms.
Anti-inflammatory

Doctors may prescribe oral corticosteroid drug (prednisone) to reduce swelling, redness, and itching.
Immunity suppressing drugs

When anti-inflammatory and anti-itching drugs prove ineffective, doctors prescribe medicines capable of calming overactive immune system.
Nonsteroidal or anti-inflammatory medication (leukotriene antagonists)

It gives relief from pain and inflammation.
Blood protein controllers

Medicines that regulate levels of blood proteins are prescribed to people who suffer from hereditary angioedema.

When do I contact the doctor?

If there are frequent episodes of swelling, affecting the skin and lips majorly, but the cause is unknown, you are advised to immediately consult a doctor. Symptoms such as breathing problems, fainting or dizziness worsen further. It can turn fatal if neglected.

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