What Works for Allergic, ACE-Inhibitor and Hereditary Swelling
Angioedema treatment depends on the cause, which is why a diagnosis comes first. Swelling caused by histamine responds differently from swelling caused by bradykinin, and giving the wrong medicine can waste critical time.
Histamine-Driven (Allergic) Angioedema
Epinephrine is the treatment for severe reactions with breathing or circulation problems. Milder cases are treated with non-sedating antihistamines, sometimes in higher doses and with a short course of oral steroids. See allergic reaction hives.
ACE-Inhibitor Angioedema
Blood pressure medicines in the ACE inhibitor family can cause swelling without hives, even years after starting. The doctor will usually stop the medicine and choose an alternative. Do not stop prescribed medication on your own. Airway protection is the priority.
Hereditary Angioedema
HAE is treated with specific drugs such as C1 inhibitor, icatibant or ecallantide for attacks and several preventive medicines for long-term control. Learn more at hereditary angioedema.
Chronic Spontaneous Angioedema
When swelling accompanies chronic spontaneous urticaria, antihistamines and add-on therapies such as omalizumab may help.
When to Call 911
Do not wait it out: hives with shortness of breath, noisy breathing, a hoarse voice, swelling of the tongue or throat, dizziness, a racing pulse, or repeated vomiting are signs of a possible severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). Call 911 immediately.
When to See a Doctor
See a doctor if your symptoms last more than a few days, keep coming back, cover large areas, or interfere with sleep or daily life. At the Hives Treatment Center in San Francisco, Dr. Tiffany Young sees patients with angioedema through online and in-person visits.
Frequently Asked Questions About Angioedema Treatment
Do antihistamines treat all angioedema?
No. They do not help bradykinin-driven swelling.
Can I treat angioedema at home?
Mild cases may be monitored, but any breathing or swallowing problem is an emergency.
Will an EpiPen help?
Epinephrine is lifesaving in allergic reactions but may not help HAE.
Get Relief for Your Hives
The right angioedema treatment depends on the right diagnosis. Visit our hives treatment page to see the latest treatment options for your outbreak.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you think you are having a medical emergency, call 911.
