Angioedema refers to swelling in the deeper layers of the skin caused by fluid leakage from small blood vessels. This condition typically develops suddenly, affecting areas like the face, hands, and feet.

While most cases of angioedema are not serious and resolve on their own within 1-2 days, in some instances, it can pose a serious risk to health. Therefore, recognizing the signs of angioedema is crucial to ensuring you receive the appropriate treatment.

Symptoms of Angioedema

Many people often confuse angioedema with urticaria, though they are different conditions. Although urticaria can sometimes occur alongside angioedema, the two are distinct.

Angioedema presents several key symptoms that differ from those of urticaria, including:

Sudden Swelling Without Pain

In angioedema, swelling typically appears suddenly in the deeper skin layers and is usually not associated with itching. The swelling can develop within minutes to hours after exposure to a trigger such as certain foods, medications, or allergens.

Occurs in Specific Areas

Angioedema tends to affect areas of the body with soft tissue, such as the face, tongue, throat, hands, and feet. Swelling in the tongue and throat can make breathing or swallowing difficult.

Tightness in the Swollen Area

The swelling associated with angioedema is often accompanied by a sensation of tightness or discomfort in the affected area, though it is not usually painful.

Changes in Skin Color

Skin affected by angioedema may look normal or show slight redness. Unlike urticaria, angioedema does not result in a raised rash.

Respiratory Disorders

When angioedema occurs in the throat, it can lead to hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, and shortness of breath. Trouble breathing signals a more serious situation that requires immediate medical intervention.

Digestive Issues

In some cases, angioedema can affect the digestive system, leading to symptoms like abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. These symptoms are especially common in hereditary angioedema.

Signs of More Severe Angioedema

While most cases of angioedema are mild and resolve without intervention, certain signs can indicate a more severe condition that requires urgent medical care.

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention immediately, as they may signal a life-threatening situation:

• Swelling of the tongue, throat, or mouth.

• Difficulty breathing or swallowing, requiring immediate treatment to prevent choking or severe breathing issues.

• Wheezing, which suggests narrowing of the airway.

• Stridor, a high-pitched sound caused by the narrowing of the upper airway.

• Intense abdominal pain along with nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.

• Swelling that worsens or does not subside within a few hours.

• Swelling large enough to impair organ function.

• Symptoms of anaphylaxis, including a rapid drop in blood pressure, pale and sweaty skin, a fast or weak pulse, and worsening difficulty breathing.

If you notice any of these symptoms, seek immediate care at a hospital.

In cases of mild angioedema, you can also take advantage of the consultation services available on the Ai Care app, which is downloadable from the App Store or Play Store.

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