Idiopathic angioedema treatment is a well-documented medical science. However, given that there are multiple forms of angioedema, and variances in the symptoms and severity across cases, these treatments may vary in effectiveness and safety of use. Angioedema is also known as “hives” commonly, and is characteristic for the acute swelling of the skin and the often red, itchy and irritated blotches which can occur beside it. The irritation is known as urticaria, and is very common in cases of angioedema.
Agioedema is categorized under three common forms. The first is acquired angioedema, which is brought on in any number of people when a drug reaction or a common irritant causes the swelling and potential urticaria. This is one of the more common forms of angioedema and is one that any individual may be at risk of experiencing some time in their life.
Hereditary angioedema is when the illness runs in the family, and often the stimulus to induce the symptoms is common between generations, though not always. There are any number of stimuli which can bring about the symptoms when the illness is hereditary. While some allergic reactions resulting in angioedema are acquired, many allergies are also hereditary, making allergic angioedema one of the more common ways hereditary forms of the illness may manifest.
There is however a third category of angioedema, called idiopathic angioedema. This form of the illness occurs when no specific stimulus or genesis of the illness has been documented with clarity in a patient. Sadly, this is a common form of angioedema, and without knowing the cause and nature of it, it is more difficult to treat in the long run.
However, like the other forms of angioedema, idiopathic angioedema treatment is possible, at least when symptoms flare up. Like with many allergic reactions, C1 inhibitors can be synthesized which can help reduce the swelling. The body produces some number of C1 inhibitor on its own for this purpose, but sometimes it’s insufficient. Other cases may simply require using agents to reduce the rate the body uses its existing C1 inhibitors.
In acute cases, doses of epinephrine have been documented to work well on multiple forms of angioedema. First used to treat severe allergic reactions, it has also been known to stimulate a reversal of symptoms more broadly with the illness.
In less severe cases, over the counter supplements which contain epinephrine can be used to treat minor angioedema.
Hereditary angioedema treatment, acquired angioedema treatment and general treatment for angioedema has benefited greatly from continued testing and application of epinephrine.
When Should Medical Help be Sought?
Very acute cases of angioedema, in which the eyes have been swollen shut, or the larynx is being constricted should be taken to an emergency medical practitioner immediately. However, lesser cases which only cause minor swelling that does not inhibit the patient’s ability to function are less serious and can probably be dealt with through an epinephrine-containing supplement. However, one should consult a physician before starting either regular or emergency use of any supplement for this purpose.
Any case of angioedema which lasts longer than six hours without symptoms abating, regardless its severity, should be dealt with by a physician immediately.
