I did not become an advocate because I felt powerful. I became one because I had felt powerless too many times. For years, I sat in exam rooms without knowing I could question what I was being told. I accepted that unexplained swelling, severe abdominal attacks, hospitalizations, and no…
Discussion
A woman in her early 20s with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), the most common form of the autoimmune disease lupus, developed recurrent episodes of angioedema despite having normal C1 esterase inhibitor (C1-INH) levels and function, according to a case report. Instead, blood tests showed signs that the complement…
Discussion
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is slated to decide by early next year whether or not to approve a one-time gene-editing therapy to potentially control swelling in hereditary angioedema (HAE). The regulatory agency accepted an application from Intellia Therapeutics seeking approval of its infusion therapy…
Discussion
If you’ve been reading my columns over the summer, you’ll know it’s been difficult for me lately. To say I have had some challenges would be an understatement. I’ve faced new diagnoses and tried new medications for my hereditary angioedema. Some have helped, but others actually made…
Angioedema is the formal medical term for swelling under the skin. It usually occurs as part of an allergic reaction, but has forms that are not due to allergies.
Acute angioedema often occurs as part of an allergic reaction to various allergens or triggers. These can include certain foods, insect bites or stings, medications, and natural rubber products like latex.
Angioedema and hives often occur at the same time. However, angioedema causes large, thick welts which may not be itchy, whereas hives are smaller and usually itchy.
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