Understanding what an angioedema attack feels like

Last updated Oct. 18, 2024, by Susie Strachan
Fact-checked by Patrícia Silva, PhD

Swelling attacks are a common symptom of angioedema. These attacks can happen suddenly, causing distress, confusion, and even fear.

Understanding what an angioedema attack feels like, what might trigger it, and how to manage and prevent it can relieve your anxiety by giving you a sense of control.

Learning more about angioedema can also help you recognize warning signs early — or those of your child — so you can respond quickly and become more confident about living with angioedema.

Main symptoms of an angioedema attack

There are different types of angioedema, although they can have symptoms in common. Some are caused by allergies, others can happen as a side effect of medications, or in very rare instances, they can be triggered by an illness (acquired angioedema). In some cases, the cause isn’t clear.

Specifically, hereditary angioedema (HAE) is a rare, inherited type of the condition that causes unpredictable swelling in the deeper layers of the skin or mucous membranes.

Typically, swelling occurs on the lips, eyelids, mouth or tongue, hands or feet, or neck or throat. It can also affect the bowel or genitals. The most concerning symptom from an attack is swelling in your throat, as it can interfere with being able to breathe.

Angioedema attacks can bring on symptoms of:

• numbness, tingling, burning, or prickling sensations
• skin that feels tight, warm, or tender
• heaviness or stretching in the affected area.

Along with swellings, you might have other angioedema attack symptoms such as:

• headache, nausea, fever, or fatigue, or flu-like symptoms
• stomach pain and diarrhea
• difficulty speaking
• breathing difficulties.

Hives (urticaria) during an attack generally are more common in angioedema associated with an allergic reaction.

The discomfort and uncertainty about how long an attack will last can increase your stress levels, making it harder to focus on daily activities. You may worry about how severe the swelling will become or how it could affect your breathing, speaking, or ability to eat.

Coping with the self-consciousness that comes from visible swelling can also be a challenge.

Experiencing physical and emotional discomfort can make it difficult to remain calm, adding to your stress while you are trying to stop the angioedema attack.

Early warning signs

When an HAE attack is about to start, you might notice early warning signs — called prodromal symptoms — such as fatigue, muscle aches, or a pins-and-needles sensation prickling on your skin.

Along with these physical signs, you might feel anxious or irritable, or have a general sense that something is wrong.

Recognizing these early warnings can help you identify your HAE triggers and give you the chance to prepare for an oncoming swelling attack.

Keeping a journal describing your early warning signs and possible triggers can help you identify potential patterns in advance.

Caregivers of children with HAE should encourage them to try to notice any changes in how they feel before a swelling episode to find potential clues of their early warning signs.

How to treat an angioedema attack

Once you have a list of potential triggers, work with your healthcare providers to develop a personal plan for angioedema attack treatment. Having a plan in place is essential for quick response when an attack occurs.

Your healthcare provider may prescribe medications that can prevent attacks or minimize swelling.

Administer any prescribed emergency medication immediately according to your care plan. Be sure your angioedema treatment is always accessible, whether you’re at home, work, or are traveling. Ensure your child’s school or activity leaders know the signs of a swelling episode and how to administer medications.

When an attack starts, try to remain calm, as stress and anxiety may worsen angioedema symptoms.

To help manage stress, it may help to practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing exercises or meditation that you can use during attacks.

Long-term management

In the long term, the combination of knowing and avoiding personal triggers and taking medications to prevent and control attacks can help minimize the impact of angioedema.

Common triggers for people living with HAE can include trauma; viral infections; stress; medical and dental procedures, including surgery and having a tooth pulled; hormonal fluctuations; allergens; and repetitive physical activities.

Connecting with others who have had similar experiences can be one way to get advice for symptom management.

HAE support groups, whether online or in-person, are a safe space where you can ask questions, share concerns, and receive practical tips. These groups may also offer advice about treatments and coping strategies that may help you feel more in control of your condition or when caring for a child with HAE.

When to see a doctor

Whether you have HAE or a loved one does, it’s important to know when you can manage HAE attacks yourself, when to see a doctor for treatment, or when to seek emergency care.

You should see a doctor if the attacks are becoming more frequent or severe, or if symptoms aren’t responding to the prescribed treatment.

Regular checkups are an opportunity to monitor your condition and adjust your treatment plan if needed.

If you ever have difficulty breathing or severe swelling — especially around your face, tongue, or throat — or if you experience signs of airway obstruction such as wheezing or chest tightness, it is an emergency situation.

Get immediate medical attention, as airway swelling can quickly become life-threatening without prompt treatment.

Angioedema News is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.