Allergies are a fairly common problem among the population. Some reactions are accompanied by extremely intense symptoms, and sometimes even pose a threat to human life. So why does angioedema occur, what is it, what are its main symptoms and treatment methods? These questions are very relevant.
Angioneurotic edema: causes
As you know, this condition is accompanied by severe swelling of the skin, mucous membranes and subcutaneous tissue. And the cause of an intense allergic reaction is an increased sensitivity of the body to a particular group of substances, which is caused by malfunctions in the immune system.
As for allergens, their group includes primarily some medications, in particular antibiotics and acetylsalicylic acid. In addition, an allergic reaction may develop on some food components. Quincke's edema often occurs when eating chocolate, seafood, nuts, etc.
Do not discount poisons, toxins and some chemically aggressive substances, such as bromides, sulfonamides, poisons of insects and plants. Sometimes allergies are associated with the use of cosmetics.
Angioneurotic edema: what is it and what are its symptoms?
As already mentioned, such an allergic reaction is accompanied by persistent edema of the mucous membranes, skin tissues and subcutaneous tissue. It is immediately worth noting that the first signs of an allergy appear already a few minutes (less often than hours) after contact with the allergen.
In some cases, a small rash appears on the skin, similar to a rash with hives. After some time, you can notice severe swelling of the eyelids, lower lip, inner surface of the cheeks, larynx and tongue. In some cases, swelling is so pronounced that a person cannot open his eyes.
Angioedema of the larynx leads to difficulty breathing. Most patients complain of a lack of air. In some cases, in the absence of timely medical care, such a condition leads to asphyxiation and even death asphyxiation.
At the first manifestations of an allergic reaction, it is worthwhile to give the patient first aid first aid and deliver him to the hospital. Only a doctor knows how dangerous angioedema can be, what it is and how it can be eliminated. Otherwise, complications in the form of epileptic seizures, damage to the membranes of the brain are not excluded .
Angioneurotic edema: what is it and what treatment methods exist?
Unfortunately, you cannot completely get rid of allergies. That is why people with a similar problem are advised to minimize contact with potential allergens. If the reaction has nevertheless begun, it is necessary to deliver the patient to the hospital, where there is an opportunity to stop the main symptoms.
Therapy in this case depends on the severity of the patient's condition. In mild cases, taking antihistamines, in particular, the medicine “Diphenhydramine”, is enough - this medicine blocks the further secretion of histamine, prevents the development of an allergic reaction, and relieves swelling. Steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are sometimes used. With severe laryngeal edema, the use of the drug "Ephedrine" or tracheotomy is required.