What are the treatment options for angioedema?

Angioedema is swelling in deeper skin or soft tissue, often affecting the lips, eyelids, face, hands, feet, or genital area. It may occur with hives, after a medicine or food exposure, or without an obvious trigger. The treatment plan depends on the pattern and whether the airway or internal organs are involved.

Oral antihistamines can reduce histamine-driven swelling and itching. Oral corticosteroids may be prescribed for selected episodes when inflammation is substantial. Identifying and avoiding a suspected trigger, such as a medicine or food, can help prevent another episode; do not stop a prescribed medicine without medical advice.

Note when swelling began, what was eaten or taken beforehand, and whether hives, stomach symptoms, voice change, or breathing symptoms appeared. Follow the action plan given by your clinician and keep a record of suspected triggers and treatments.

Do not rely on home observation when swelling is progressing near the mouth or throat. If a medicine is suspected, contact the prescriber promptly for a safe alternative plan. Recurrent episodes deserve assessment even when each episode settles.

Call emergency services immediately for tongue or throat swelling, trouble breathing, wheezing, a hoarse or changing voice, difficulty swallowing, faintness, or rapidly worsening symptoms. These signs can indicate airway involvement and need urgent treatment. Do not drive yourself if breathing or consciousness is affected.

Ask what type of angioedema is suspected, which triggers to avoid, which medicine to use at the first sign, when to attend emergency care, and whether recurrent swelling needs specialist assessment.