HAE pool day prep: 6 Tips to avoid triggers

Last updated July 22, 2025, by Natalie Sirota

 

Summer is here — for many, that means pool and beach days. But for those of us living with a rare disease like hereditary angioedema (HAE), these outings can take a bit more planning.

From excessive heat to prolonged sun exposure, a typical summer day can come with serious challenges for people with HAE. My daughter, son, and I have all experienced this firsthand. We pack towels, sunscreen, snacks, and toys, but we also need to take specific measures to prevent and potentially treat our HAE attacks.

Here are some ways to prepare for a fun (and safe) day by the pool.

1. Understand your personal HAE triggers

Figuring out your personal HAE triggers is key to avoiding and possibly preventing an unwelcome attack. Heat and HAE can be a very risky combination, potentially causing exhaustion, swelling, and other symptoms, including urticaria, or hives.

It is very important to listen to your body so that you can become aware of your own specific triggers. At first, this can be difficult and might consist of taking notes. For example, someone with gastrointestinal swelling could keep a food diary and note what they ate before swelling occurs.

Tracking your activity can help you understand specific physical triggers, some of which can include manifestations from vibrations, as well as the ever-elusive one called stress.

Once you have a list of your specific triggers, you can better plan for trips and outings, including to the pool or beach.

2. Pack all medications and emergency info

Another key part of preparing for any summer outing is ensuring you have all necessary medications and any supporting medical equipment. Some medicines may require temperature control (refrigeration, ice packs, or a cooler), so plan accordingly. If your medications include sharps, don’t forget a secure container for safe disposal.

You may also want to think about the timing of your prophylactic medication (if prescribed), especially if you’re planning to take part in any activities that could be physically taxing and potentially trigger symptoms.

In addition to your meds, pack personal identification, emergency medical information, and your doctor’s contact numbers. It might feel like a lot, but being prepared for any scenario can give you and those around you some peace of mind, especially when traveling.

This may seem like over-preparedness, and my children certainly think it is. However, when an emergency happens, which I’ve personally encountered, no one regrets being prepared!

3. Choose HAE-friendly swimwear and clothing

You should consider the potential for urticaria or rashes when prepping for a pool day. Something as simple as clothing choices can affect your comfort during your outing.

• Try to avoid tight-fitting swimwear or those with straps that may cause pressure or friction.
• Wear soft, pliable, stretchy materials to reduce skin irritation or swelling.
• Consider rash guards and similar types of loose-fit clothing to provide additional comfort and less stress for your body.

Fabrics that offer UV protection can also help prevent excessive sun exposure. I always make sure to have some form of cover-up as an additional option. A change of clothing can help as well.

Even your footwear choices can have positive or negative effects on your HAE. Tight or abrasive water shoes that collect sand or flip-flops that rub can all dampen your experience. Try to choose soft, pliable, comfortable sandals that are gentle on your feet.

4. Prioritize staying cool and hydrated

As heat exposure is such a huge activating factor for HAE, especially in the summer, staying cool and hydrated is crucial.

This can come in various forms, although number one is drinking plenty of water. I was excited to have recently found organic sodas and ice pops with added electrolytes, which are great for summer outings. (Plus, if you’re already carrying a cooler, it can double as emergency medication storage.)

Other items that might not necessarily stave off an attack but could possibly ease the effects include cooling towels, umbrellas, and hats. Also, try to access covered or shaded areas to take breaks, and don’t forget to actually enjoy the water!

5. Be mindful of sunscreen and skincare

Caring for our skin while enjoying the outdoors is important. A major part of skincare is sunscreen, but not all sunscreens are created equal.

Since those of us with angioedema can be sensitive to many sunscreen ingredients that could potentially cause irritation, choose a fragrance-free, hypoallergenic brand. Remember to reapply it regularly and do so gently to reduce friction from rubbing.

As you care for your skin, be alert for any allergic reactions or trauma that could trigger swelling. Be sure to bring additional products for after-sun care, too, such as aloe vera or light moisturizers to aid your skin’s recovery. Aloe is very cool, soothing, and all-natural. For me, it’s a must-have for everyone in the family.

6. Focus on post-pool recovery and rest

Rest may be the most difficult consideration of all the suggestions for successfully avoiding summertime HAE attacks. Isn’t the whole idea of summer fun supposed to be restful and relaxing? Well, I can say from personal experience that this is the one I struggle with the most.

Rest may very well be the single most important activity of your day. Avoiding post-event fatigue can dramatically help in reducing attacks. Having a calm, cool, relaxing environment in which to rest and recover after a gentle shower is vital. Extra hydration is always helpful, too.

Remember to gauge your body’s responses and reactions after each phase of your outing, and document them, if possible, for future reference. This varies from person to person and is very subjective.

However, if you need to treat early signs of swelling, don’t hesitate to use your rescue medication or call your doctor. Your health and well-being is important to everyone who cares about you.

Enjoying a pool day with HAE is possible with some preparation and self-awareness. While all of this may initially seem overwhelmingly complicated to plan, remember that putting your health first is imperative to enjoying your fun in the sun.

---

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.