Angioedema (swelling of skin, lips, eyes)
About Angioedema (swelling of skin, lips, eyes)
A swelling of the skin, eyes, lips, mouth, or tongue. The swelling occurs just below the skin. At times it can be very serious and block off the airway preventing a patient from breathing. The disorder can be part of an allergic reaction and be associated with hives. Some patients have a familial form (hereditary angioedema) that results from low levels of a protein called C1 inhibitors. A small group of patients will have a reaction to a type of blood pressure medications called ACE (Angiotensin Converting Enzyme) inhibitors manifested as angioedema of the lips, eyes, tongue or mouth. Common ACE inhibitors include: captopril (Capoten), lisinopril (Lisodur, Lopril, Novatec, Prinivil, Zestril), enalapril (Vasotec, Renitec), ramipril (Altace, Tritace, Ramace, Ramiwin), quinapril (Accupril), fosinopril (Monopril), and benazepril (Lotensin).Symptoms
Skin swelling, welts, fluid filled blisters, swelling around the eyes, mouth swelling, tongue welling, trouble breathing, noisy breathing (stridor).Tests & Diagnostics
A history and physical will be done. Allergy testing may be performed. If the provider suspects hereditary angioedema blood tests may be done such as C1 inhibitor function, C1 inhibitor level, and complement components C4 and C2.OTC sleep aids and supportive treatments
Prescription medications
Conventional treatment summary
If the angioedema is from an allergic reaction antihistamines such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl), loratadine (Alavert, Claritin), or cetirizine (Zyrtec) will be prescribed. Epinephrine is used for severe life threatening reactions. At times oral steroids such as prednisone (Deltasone) will be given to help prevent the reaction for recurring. Antihistamines are not effective for hereditary angioedema. The following medications are used for this disorder: epinephrine, C1 inhibitor concentrate (not always available), and fresh frozen plasma.Medical specialties
Allergy and Immunology · Pediatric Allergy and Immunology
This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Angioedema (swelling of skin, lips, eyes).