Angioedema: What is it? Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

Allergy is a fairly common problem among the population. Some reactions are accompanied by extremely intense symptoms, and sometimes even endanger human life. So why does angioedema arise, what is it, what are its main symptoms and methods of treatment? These issues are very relevant.

Angioedema: causes

As you know, this condition is accompanied by a strong swelling of the skin, mucous membranes and subcutaneous tissue. And the cause of an intense allergic reaction is an increased sensitivity of the body to a particular group of substances, which is caused by malfunctions in the immune system.

As for allergens, then to their group include primarily some medicines, in particular, antibiotics and acetylsalicylic acid. In addition, an allergic reaction can develop into certain food components. Quincke's swelling often occurs with the use of chocolate, seafood, nuts, etc.

Do not discount the poisons, toxins and some chemically aggressive substances, such as bromides, sulfonamides, poisons of insects and plants. Sometimes allergies are associated with the use of cosmetics.

Angioedema: what is it and what are its symptoms?

As already mentioned, such an allergic reaction is accompanied by persistent edema of the mucous membranes, skin tissues and subcutaneous tissue. Immediately it is worth noting that the first signs of an allergy appear after a few minutes (less often hours) after contact with the allergen.

In some cases, a small rash appears on the skin, similar to a rash with hives. After a while, you can notice a strong swelling of the eyelids, lower lip, inner surface of the cheeks, larynx and tongue. In some cases, puffiness is expressed so strongly that a person can not open his eyes.

Angioneurotic edema of the larynx leads to difficulties with breathing. Most patients complain of lack of air. In some cases, in the absence of timely medical care, this condition leads to asphyxia and even death due to suffocation.

At the first manifestations of an allergic reaction, it is necessary to give the patient first aid beforehand and take him to the hospital. Only the doctor knows how dangerous the angioedema can be, what it is and how it can be eliminated. Otherwise, complications in the form of epileptic seizures, lesions of the brain envelopes are not ruled out .

Angioedema: what is it and what treatments exist?

Unfortunately, you can not completely get rid of allergies. That's why people with a similar problem are advised to reduce contact with potential allergens to a minimum. If the reaction does begin, it is necessary to take the patient to the hospital, where it is possible to stop the main symptoms.

Therapy in this case depends on the severity of the patient's condition. In mild cases, it is enough to take antihistamines, in particular, the drug "Diphenhydramine" - this medicine blocks further release of histamine, prevents the development of an allergic reaction, and relieves swelling. Sometimes steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are used. With a strong swelling of the larynx, you need to take the drug "Ephedrine" or a tracheotomy.