Angioedema Health Article

Treatment

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

Cool compresses or soaks can provide pain relief.

Medications used to treat angioedema include:

• Antihistamines
• Anti-inflammatory medicines (corticosteroids)
• Cimetidine (Tagamet)
• Epinephrine
• Terbutaline (a bronchodilator)

If the person has trouble breathing, seek immediate medical help.

See: Breathing difficulties - first aid

At the hospital, a tube may be placed in the throat to keep the airway open.

Expectations (prognosis)

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

Complications

• Anaphylactic reaction
• Life-threatening airway blockage (if swelling occurs in the throat)

Calling your health care provider

Call your health care 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 you have:

• Abnormal breathing sounds (stridor)
• Difficulty breathing
• Fainting
• Wheezing

Prevention

To prevent angioedema from coming back:

• Avoid irritating the affected area.
• Avoid temperature extremes.
• Stay away from known allergens.

Never take medications that are not prescribed for you.

References

Kaplan AP. Angioedema. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2005;53(3):373-388.

Habif TP. Clinical Dermatology. 4th ed. St. Louis, Mo: Mosby; 2004:129.

Marx J. Rosen’s Emergency Medicine: Concepts and Clinical Practice. 6th ed. St. Louis, Mo: Mosby; 2006:1834-1835.

Temiño VM, Peebles RS Jr. The spectrum and treatment of angioedema. Am J Med. 2008;121:282-286.