8 ways to reduce the risk of angioedema flare-ups

Last updated June 10, 2025, by Susie Strachan
Fact-checked by Joana Carvalho, PhD

 

Living with angioedema means dealing with the uncertainty of sudden swelling with no warning.

For some people with angioedema, stress or certain foods can trigger swelling. For others, it could be from heat, pressure, or hormonal changes.

While you can’t always prevent flare-ups, knowing what might cause swelling and how to respond if it happens may help you regain a sense of control and perhaps reduce the frequency of future flare-ups.

1. Know your triggers

By paying attention to when swollen areas form, you might start to notice a pattern, which can help you and your doctor get a better sense of your angioedema triggers.

Keeping a symptom diary on paper or in an app can make it easier to pinpoint what leads to a flare-up, giving you more insight into potential triggers.

There are different types of angioedema, each with its own underlying causes and potential triggers.

• Acute allergic angioedema is often linked to allergens, or substances that can trigger an allergic reaction, such as certain foods, insect stings, or medications.
• Hereditary angioedema (HAE) is a genetic condition in which attacks may be brought on by stress, illness, injury, infection, or hormonal changes like menstruation or pregnancy.
• Drug-induced nonallergic angioedema is usually associated with medications like ACE inhibitors, which are used to treat high blood pressure.

Other triggers that can affect people with different types of angioedema include:

• sudden shifts in weather and temperature, such as being out in the cold or taking hot showers
• rubbing of skin, such as from tight clothing or carrying heavy backpacks
• dental procedures and surgery
• repetitive activities that put pressure on a part of the body for an extended period, such as gripping a hammer or a tennis racket.

Angioedema flare-ups may also occur in the absence of any obvious triggers, as it happens in people with idiopathic angioedema, a form of angioedema that has no clear underlying cause.

2. Eat smart

Paying attention to what you eat can help you identify foods that trigger flare-ups.

If gastrointestinal symptoms, including stomach pain, seem to occur at specific times, take a closer look at your diet, as a food allergy could be involved.

Some foods contain high levels of histamine, which can cause swelling in people with angioedema, including:

• aged or fermented foods
• cured meats
• some fruits and vegetables
• alcohol.

Packaged foods sometimes contain preservatives or additives that can trigger swelling from angioedema in some people. If you have a reaction after eating certain snacks or ready-made meals, start checking the ingredients list to see if you can narrow down the cause.

You should also discuss possible food issues with your doctor. They may suggest trying an elimination diet, which is when you stop eating certain foods and then slowly, one by one, start eating them again and monitor your body’s reaction.

3. Manage stress daily

For some people with angioedema, stress can increase the likelihood of having flare-ups or their intensity.

Pressure at work, conflict, or disrupted routines may heighten your body’s response systems.

When you’re stressed, your body goes into alert mode, affecting your immune system. This can lead to the release of certain chemicals, including histamine, which is also involved in allergic reactions.

For some people with angioedema, the response may be stronger than usual, which can make swelling worse or more likely to happen when other triggers are present.

You might find it helpful to try relaxing techniques, such as:

• practicing mindfulness or meditation
• doing gentle physical activity
• engaging in hobbies or activities.

4. Avoid extreme temperatures

Extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, can make swelling worse or even be a trigger. Try to keep yourself cool and comfortable, especially when outside in the summer heat or when exercising.

Clothing that is constricting or rubs against your skin can also cause swelling. Allow your skin to breathe by wearing loose clothes and soft, adjustable shoes.

5. Stick to your treatment plan

Following your angioedema treatment plan may help reduce the frequency and severity of flare-ups.

Talk with your healthcare provider about ways to avoid swelling episodes. For people living with HAE, this might include regular use of prophylactic medications that can help prevent or lower the frequency of attacks.

Even with preventive medications, flare-ups can still happen.

Your doctor may recommend having on hand fast-acting treatments, like an epinephrine auto-injector for allergic reactions or other medications. Knowing how and when to use these medications can make a difference during a flare-up.

6. Make sleep and hydration a priority

Getting enough sleep can help your immune system stay healthy, which may make it less likely that your body reacts to angioedema triggers.

Good sleep habits that can further support your body’s ability to manage flare-ups include:

• lightweight bedding and loose-fitting, moisture-wicking sleepwear to stay cool
• pillow and mattress covers that reduce dust mites or other triggers
• gentle stretches, deep breathing, or a warm bath to help de-stress before bed.

Along with rest, drinking plenty of water and other hydrating fluids can help your body heal better, including recovering from swelling.

Staying hydrated helps regulate your body’s fluid balance, maintain healthy cell function, and reduce inflammation in tissues affected by angioedema.

7. Plan ahead for flare-ups

An action plan can help you prepare for an angioedema attack.

Acting quickly may help stop your symptoms from worsening, as swelling can escalate rapidly and affect areas like your throat or airways, potentially leading to trouble breathing.

In a flare-up plan:

• keep your prescribed medications, including emergency treatments like epinephrine, easily accessible
• have a list of key contacts, such as your doctor or a trusted family member, so they’re easy to reach in an emergency
• carry a medical information card with your diagnosis, medications, and known triggers.

8. Set up a support team

Preparing for flare-ups may include having a supportive group of family and friends who can assist if needed.

Consider sharing information about your type of angioedema and what to do during an attack with those you spend time with regularly during the day and night. It can be especially helpful if your child has angioedema or if you’re unable to speak for yourself during an emergency.

The list might include school teachers, coaches, or others who may need to act quickly.

Ask your healthcare providers if they can suggest local or online angioedema support groups where you can share experiences and get more advice about managing triggers.

---

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.