Signs of Angioedema

The swollen area may feel tight, warm, tender, or mildly itchy. Skin colour can look normal or become red. Angioedema may occur alone or alongside raised, itchy surface welts called [Hives](/conditions/urticaria/). Episodes can develop after a food, medicine, insect sting, infection, or physical trigger, although the cause is not always obvious. Swelling can affect the lining of the mouth or airway even when the skin changes seem limited.

Stop and record any new exposure, if it is safe to do so, and avoid taking another dose of a suspected medicine until a clinician advises you. Do not scratch or apply unfamiliar products to swollen skin. A healthcare professional may recommend [Antihistamine Treatment](/treatments/medical-dermatology/oral-antihistamine-therapy/) or [Oral Corticosteroid Treatment](/treatments/medical-dermatology/oral-corticosteroid-therapy/) according to the cause and severity. Keep a note of timing, affected sites, and associated symptoms.

Call emergency services immediately for swelling of the tongue or throat, trouble breathing, wheezing, difficulty swallowing, hoarseness, faintness, confusion, or rapidly worsening facial swelling. Do not wait for a rash to appear. Recurrent or unexplained [Skin Swelling](/symptoms/skin-swelling/) needs medical assessment, especially after starting a medicine.

Ask what may have triggered the episode, which medicines to avoid, how to recognise airway involvement, and whether you need an emergency action plan for future swelling.