Angioedema occurs when tissue suddenly becomes swollen due to an excess release of fluid and other bodily compounds rushing into the area. These flares can range from mild to severe, making them somewhat unpredictable. In this article, we'll offer insight into how the various types of angioedema differ from each other. With this information in hand, anyone with symptoms will be able to make informed decisions about their care.
What are the types of Angioedema?
The following are the different types of angioedema:
- Acute allergic Angioedema
This is a fast-onset type of angioedema. It is triggered by a particular food item, taking certain medications, physical touch, and others.
- Non-allergic drug reaction
This reaction may not start right away, and is connected to drug ingestion. Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors are the main class of medications linked to this non-allergic reaction.
Another type of angioedema is idiopathic Angioedema. It has no known cause, making it a more serious condition. Certain triggers like infection and drugs can cause symptoms.
If one parent has this type of angioedema, there is a 50% chance that a child may inherit it.
- Acquired C1 inhibitor deficiency
Acquired C1 inhibitor deficiency may be associated with B-cell lymphoma, a type of cancer. Similar to other forms of angioedema, this type can impact the larynx, affecting one's voice box and potentially leading to asphyxiation (suffocation).
Vibratory angioedema occurs due to the exposure of the skin to vibrations- repeated stretching, or friction.