Angioedema is a skin condition that involves swelling in both the tissue and mucous membranes. It occurs in much the same way as hives except not on the skin surface. Rather, the welts develop underneath the top layer of skin in the soft tissues. This skin condition typically shows up in the face, feet, hands and genital areas.
Allergies are the leading cause for angioedema. When an allergic reaction occurs certain histamines mix with the blood and then the welts begin to develop. It is not uncommon for the cause of angioedema to not be identified. Many different types of allergic reactions can cause it to occur.
Things that have been known to cause angioedema are allergy shots, cold, sunlight, stress, PMS and pregnancy. It is also possible to inherit this disorder. The type of angioedema that is inherited is a problem in the genes that cause proteins in the blood to function abnormally. Without these proteins working right the immune system is not regulated properly.
The doctor will need to know if your family has a history of skin rash or allergies. A series of skin tests are often called for, as well. Make sure you let your doctor know if you are taking any prescription medications because they commonly cause angioedema.
Angioedema is often mild and will go away by itself, without medical intervention. If you are experiencing a more severe or long lasting case of angioedema then there are several things you can do to help yourself. If your angioedema makes it hard to breathe or swallow then do not wait around. Talk to your doctor immediately.
The two major conventional medicines for treating angioedema are diphenhydramine and loratadine. These are both anti-histamines that cause several side effects like diarrhea, drowsiness and dizziness. They are not a great option for long term treatment because your body can build up a tolerance to them. If you are having a severe reaction you might have to take an adrenaline shot to stop the symptoms from becoming life threatening.
Quercitin is a great natural alternative for dealing with the symptoms of angioedema. It works right at the source by acting as a blockade against histamines. Urtica urens has been used for hundreds of years to fight against allergies and inflammation. Plantago lanceolata and allium cepa are great choices if you are trying to get rid of the itch and swelling that angioedema causes. Going with one, or several, of these natural medicines can save you a bunch of side effects. Make sure you let your doctor know which ones you are using so that he can make other recommendations based upon them.
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