What is Angioedema?

(Swelling)

Angioedema can be caused by a number of triggers, both food or environmental, which result in the release of histamine by the body’s immune system. The mechanism of angioedema is similar to that of hives and these two conditions often are present at the same time. While hives tend to affect the superficial layers of the skin, in angioedema the swelling and inflammation are seen in the deeper layers of the skin. Angioedema occurs in soft tissues such as the mouth, eyelids, lips and genitals.