Angioedema

Also known as: swelling.

What is angioedema?

Angioedema is another term for swelling.

What causes angioedema?

There are many different causes of angioedema. There are non-allergic causes like a hereditary form (one that runs in families), a side effect from a blood pressure medication, and an unknown cause.

Allergic reactions can also cause swelling, these most often have symptoms of hives, and itching as well.

What are the symptoms of angioedema?

Swelling can happen in the skin at any location on the body, the mouth and throat, and the gastrointestinal tract. When swelling happens in the tongue or throat, this can lead to difficulty breathing. When swelling happens in the gastrointestinal tract, this can cause severe belly pain.

What are angioedema care options?

It is important that a board certified allergist determines which type of angioedema you have (non-allergic vs allergic) as the treatment options for both are very different.

Reviewed by: Amy S Feldman, MD

This page was last updated on: May 05, 2021 11:47 AM