Angioedema Treatment: A Deep Dive into Diagnosis, Treatment and Living with the Condition
Naufan Cmi
Causes and types of angioedema
Angioedema is a medical condition that causes swelling under the skin in the deeper layers of skin. There are a few different causes and types of angioedema. Hereditary angioedema (HAE) is caused by a genetic deficiency of C1 inhibitor, a protein that regulates inflammation. It is estimated to affect about 1 in 10,000 to 1 in 50,000 people worldwide. Another type is acquired angioedema due to medications like ACE inhibitors. Angioedema may also be triggered by allergic reactions to certain foods, insect bites, medications, latex or other allergens.
Symptoms include swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue, larynx (voice box), abdomen or limbs. The swelling develops rapidly and may feel tight. Skin over the swollen area may become painful or tender. Other symptoms depend on the location of swelling, but can include difficulty breathing, speaking, swallowing or gastroinstetinal pain.
Diagnosis and evaluation
If someone experiences recurring or unexplained Angioedema Treatment episodes, seeing an allergist or immunologist is recommended. Blood tests can help determine the underlying cause and rule out other conditions. If HAE is suspected, a laboratory test can confirm a C1 inhibitor deficiency. The doctor will also consider your symptoms and medical history. Additional testing like laryngoscopy may be done if throat swelling is involved to evaluate airway swelling. Keeping a detailed symptom diary can help the doctor assess triggers and develop a treatment plan.
Treatment options for Angioedema Treatment
For HAE, treatments aim to prevent swelling attacks or stop attacks once they begin. Preventative treatments include prophylactic C1 inhibitor therapy given every 3-4 days. These products are made from human blood plasma. Other options include a kallikrein inhibitor ( given every other day) that works further down the inflammation pathway. On-demand treatments are used when symptoms start and aim to stop progression of swelling. Available drugs include C1 inhibitor concentrate and bradykinin receptor antagonist injections.
Medications may also be used to angioedema treatment attacks depending on triggers. For allergic triggers, antihistamines are usually first-line treatment along with avoidance of triggers. Corticosteroids can help if symptoms are severe or don’t respond to antihistamines. For ACE inhibitor angioedema, discontinuing the medication is recommended along with monitoring for several weeks after. Episodes may still occur. Consultation with an allergist is important for proper management.
Surgery is rarely required but may be considered for severe, debilitating and treatment-resistant HAE swelling. Caution must be taken before any procedures to ensure proper control of symptoms. Access to emergency medications is critical in case of laryngeal attacks that can potentially lead to asphyxiation. Patients and families should have an action plan and be familiar with self-administration of on-demand treatments under medical guidance.
With appropriate treatment and preventative management, people living with hereditary or acquired angioedema treatment can lead active lives between swelling attacks. However, it is important to have a treatment protocol from an experienced doctor and carry rescue medications at all times in case symptoms occur. Research continues on new drug therapies, but available options have helped transform outcomes when patients receive prompt diagnosis and care. Proper management helps minimize risks of disability or complications from this condition.
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