Angioedema

Definition

Angioedema is swelling that is similar to hives, but the swelling is under the skin instead of on the surface.

Hives are often called welts. They are a surface swelling. It is possible to have angioedema without hives, and many times angioedema can come with hives.

Alternative Names

Angioneurotic edema; Welts; Allergic reaction - angioedema; Hives - angioedema

Causes

Angioedema may be caused by an allergic reaction. Angioedema typically is not itchy while hives are very itchy. During the reaction, histamine and other chemicals are released into the bloodstream. The body releases histamine when the immune system detects a foreign substance called an allergen.

However, in most cases, the cause of angioedema is never found.

The following may cause angioedema:

  • Allergies due to animal dander (scales of shed skin), foods, insect bites or pollen
  • Exposure to water, sunlight, cold or heat
  • Medicines (drug allergy) such as antibiotics (penicillin and sulfa drugs), nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and certain blood pressure medicines (ACE inhibitors)
  • Autoimmune diseases such as lupus

Hives and angioedema may also occur after infections. Angioedema may occur alone or with other illnesses (including autoimmune disorders such as lupus, leukemia, and lymphoma).

A rare form of angioedema runs in families and has different triggers, complications, and treatments. This is called hereditary angioedema.

Symptoms

The main symptom is sudden swelling below the skin surface. Welts or swelling on the surface of the skin can also develop.

The swelling usually occurs around the eyes and lips. It may also be found on the hands, feet, and throat. The swelling may form a line or be more spread out.

The welts are painful and may be itchy. This is known as hives (urticaria). They turn pale and swell if irritated. The deeper swelling of angioedema may also be painful.

Other symptoms may include:

Exams and Tests

The health care provider will look at your skin and ask if you have been exposed to any irritating substances. If your throat is affected, a physical exam might reveal abnormal sounds (stridor) when you breathe in.

Blood tests or allergy testing may be ordered, but often no cause of the swelling or hives is found.

Treatment

Mild symptoms may not need treatment. Moderate to severe symptoms may need to be treated. Breathing difficulty is an emergency condition.

People with angioedema should:

  • Avoid any known allergen or trigger that causes their symptoms.
  • Avoid any medicines, herbs, or supplements that are not prescribed by a provider.

Cool compresses or soaks can relieve pain.

Medicines used to treat angioedema include:

  • Antihistamines
  • Anti-inflammatory medicines (corticosteroids)
  • Epinephrine injectors (people with a history of severe symptoms may need to carry these with them in case of a severe reaction)
  • Inhaler medicines that help open up the airways

If the person has trouble breathing, seek medical help right away. A severe, life-threatening airway blockage may occur if the throat swells.

Outlook (Prognosis)

Angioedema that does not affect the breathing may be uncomfortable. It is usually harmless and goes away in a few days.

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Contact your provider if:

  • Angioedema does not respond to treatment
  • It is severe
  • You have never had angioedema before

Go to the emergency room or call the local emergency number (such as 911) if there are any of the following symptoms:

  • Abnormal breathing sounds
  • Difficulty breathing or wheezing
  • Fainting

References

Barksdale AN, Ross W. Allergy, anaphylaxis, and angioedema. In: Walls RM, ed. Rosen's Emergency Medicine: Concepts and Clinical Practice. 10th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2023:chap 106.

Dinulos JGH. Urticaria, angioedema, and pruritus. In: Dinulos JGH, ed. Habif's Clinical Dermatology. 7th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 6.

Saini SS. Urticaria and angioedema. In: Goldman L, Cooney KA, eds. Goldman-Cecil Medicine. 27th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2024:chap 232.

Related Links

Review Date: 3/31/2024
Reviewed By: Deborah Pedersen, MD, MS, Allergy & Asthma Care, PC, Taunton, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

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