Introduction

Angioedema isswelling underneath the skin. It's usuallya reaction to a trigger, such as a medication or something you're allergic to.

It isn'tnormally serious, but it can be a recurring problem for some people and canvery occasionally be life-threatening if it affects breathing.

Treatment can usually help keepthe swellingunder control.

This page covers:

Symptoms

When to get medical advice

Causes

Treatments

Symptoms of angioedema

The swelling most often affects the:

• hands
• feet
• area around the eyes
• lips and tongue
• genitals

Many people also have a raised, itchy rash called urticaria (hives) .

In more serious cases, angioedema can also cause breathing difficulties, tummy (abdominal) pain and dizziness .

You may need to have some tests to determine the cause. This is known as "idiopathic angioedema".

For example:

• allergic and idiopathic angioedema are usually treated with antihistamines or occasionally steroid medication to reduce the swelling
• drug-induced angioedema will usually resolve if you change to a different medication your doctor will advise you about this
• hereditary angioedema can't be cured, but medications can help prevent swelling and quickly treat swelling when it occurs

Angioedema can usually be treated at home, although treatment in hospital may be necessary in serious cases.

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