Angioedema

What is it?

Angioedema is the swelling of the deeper layers of the skin, often affecting the face, lips, tongue, throat, or limbs. It can be caused by allergic reactions, medications, or hereditary factors.

What are the symptoms?

Swelling in the face, lips, tongue, or throat
Difficulty breathing or swallowing (in severe cases)
Pain or tenderness at the site of swelling
Rash or hives (when associated with an allergic reaction)

What else could it be? (Differential diagnosis)

Urticaria (hives)
Allergic reactions
Anaphylaxis (if breathing is compromised)
Quincke's edema (a hereditary form of angioedema)

What are the aggravating factors?

Allergies to foods, medications, or insect stings
Stress or physical exertion
Certain medications (e.g., ACE inhibitors)
Hormonal changes (e.g., pregnancy, menstruation)

What types of food are helpful?

Low-histamine diet: Avoiding foods like aged cheeses, fermented foods, alcohol, and processed meats can help reduce symptoms.
Anti-inflammatory foods: Incorporating turmeric, ginger, and omega-3 fatty acids to reduce inflammation.
Hydration: Drinking plenty of water to support the body's healing process.

Sample Recipe: Grilled Chicken with Avocado and Quinoa

Ingredients: Chicken breast, avocado, quinoa, lime juice, olive oil.
Directions: Grill the chicken and serve over quinoa with diced avocado, lime juice, and a drizzle of olive oil.

What are the traditional treatments?

Antihistamines: To reduce swelling and itching caused by allergic reactions.
Corticosteroids: To reduce inflammation in severe cases.
Epinephrine: For severe cases that involve difficulty breathing (as in anaphylaxis).
Avoiding triggers: Identifying and avoiding the allergens or medications that cause the reactions.

What are the natural and alternative treatments?

Vitamin C: Known for its antihistamine-like properties, vitamin C-rich foods (e.g., citrus fruits) may help reduce swelling.
Bromelain: Found in pineapples, bromelain is thought to have anti-inflammatory properties that may reduce swelling.
Probiotics: These may help balance the immune system and reduce allergic responses.