Test Your Knowledge

Angioedema that does not affect breathing will usually go away on its own and does not require medical treatment. However, there are several self-care steps people can take at home to soothe associated symptoms. They include:

• Avoid activity that might cause perspiration.
  
  
• Avoid foods or nonessential medicines that have been identified as triggers. It is extremely important to speak with a physician before stopping any prescribed medications.  
  
  
• Avoid hot baths or showers, which can worsen swelling.
  
  
• Cool compresses and baths can help reduce discomfort.
  
  
• Over-the-counter antihistamines may help relieve minor symptoms, such as itching and swelling. However, never take any medicine without first consulting a physician.
  
  

  

• Relax and reduce stress as much as possible.
  
  
• Wear light clothes that are not too snug. Tight clothing can trigger a new outbreak.

In some cases, patients may require prescription drugs to treat angioedema symptoms. Long-acting antihistamines are the primary drug prescribed to treat mild cases of angioedema. Corticosteroids may be prescribed to treat moderate to severe cases of angioedema.

Combination H1- and H2-blocking drugs have also been prescribed to treat stubborn cases of hives and angioedema. These drugs are intended to be used as antidepressants, but they have strong histamine-blocking properties. However, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not specifically approved these drugs for treating hives or angioedema.

In very rare cases, angioedema can trigger anaphylactic shock, a life-threatening allergic reaction. An immediate dose of the drug epinephrine (adrenaline) is necessary to reverse these symptoms. Patients with a history of anaphylactic reactions may require a prescription for an epinephrine auto-injector kit. This contains a dose of epinephrine that can be self-administered in emergency situations.

The best way to prevent angioedema symptoms is to avoid allergens that trigger them. This is not always easy, but identifying triggers that cause a reaction is a first step to making lifestyle adjustments that reduce exposure to the allergen.

Hereditary angioedema may be treated with other medications. Androgens (male sex hormones) can stimulate the body to produce more C1 inhibitor proteins and may be prescribed on a preventative basis. To reduce swelling during an episode, the drug aminocaproic acid may be prescribed.

In some cases, a patient with hereditary angioedema is given a transfusion of fresh plasma (the pale yellow fluid portion of whole blood) to increase the levels of C1 inhibitor in their blood. This method may be used to prevent attacks before a dental or surgical procedure. 

Patients who suffer from angioedema are encouraged to wear a medical alert bracelet containing information about their condition. This can alert healthcare providers to the condition in case the patient is unable to communicate during treatment.