Florida Allergy & Asthma Associates
Angioedema Treatment in Atlantis & Boynton Beach, FL
Expert Care for Sudden Skin Swelling
Angioedema is a condition that causes sudden, deep swelling beneath the surface of the skin. While it often appears around the eyes, lips, and throat, it can affect other parts of the body as well. This swelling can be uncomfortable and, in some cases, can make it difficult to breathe or swallow.
At Florida Allergy & Asthma Associates, our specialists in Atlantis and Boynton Beach provide expert diagnosis and personalized treatment to manage swelling episodes and prevent future attacks. Whether your symptoms are caused by allergies, medications, or genetics, we are here to help you find relief.
Symptoms of Angioedema
Angioedema symptoms often appear quickly. It is important to recognize the signs so you can seek medical care promptly. Common symptoms include:
- Sudden Swelling: Usually around the eyes, lips, hands, feet, or throat.
- Breathing or Swallowing Issues: This occurs if the swelling affects the airway and requires immediate attention.
- Stomach Discomfort: Abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting can occur if the swelling affects the digestive tract.
- Skin Sensation: The swollen areas may feel hot, painful, or slightly itchy.
Common Causes & Diagnosis
Finding the cause of your swelling is the first step toward long-term control. Our team uses advanced testing and a thorough review of your health history to identify the trigger. Common causes include:
- Allergic Reactions: Triggers from certain foods, insect stings, or environmental factors.
- Medications: Some blood pressure medications (like ACE inhibitors) or common pain relievers can trigger swelling.
- Hereditary Factors: A rare genetic condition known as Hereditary Angioedema (HAE).
- Physical Triggers: In Florida’s climate, some patients may react to extreme heat, cold, or even pressure on the skin.
Our Diagnostic Process
To give you the best care, we perform a detailed physical exam and may use blood tests or other diagnostic tools to confirm the type of angioedema you are experiencing.
Comprehensive Treatment Options
We create a customized plan for every patient to manage symptoms and reduce the risk of future episodes.
Personalized Medical Care
- Allergy Management: We may use antihistamines, corticosteroids, or epinephrine to treat and manage allergic-based swelling.
- Medication Adjustments: If your swelling is caused by a medication you are taking, our team will work with your primary care doctor to find a safer alternative.
- Specialized HAE Treatment: For patients with Hereditary Angioedema, we provide modern treatments designed to balance the proteins in the blood that cause swelling.
- Emergency Preparedness: We provide all patients with a clear action plan for acute cases to ensure they stay safe during a severe flare-up.
Why Trust Florida Allergy & Asthma Associates?
Our practice is managed by the DMV Allergy & Asthma Center, bringing a high standard of care from across six multi-state locations directly to Palm Beach County. We focus on the whole person, ensuring that your treatment plan fits your lifestyle and helps you live without the fear of an unexpected attack.
Frequently Asked Questions
For most patients, the first line of defense includes specialized antihistamines. Our doctors will determine the correct dosage and type of medication based on your specific needs.
Recurrent swelling can be caused by many things, including hidden triggers in food, preservatives, or certain medications like aspirin. Our goal is to find that “hidden” trigger so you can avoid it.
Because angioedema involves the immune system and allergic responses, it is best managed by a board-certified allergist or immunologist.
The fastest way to stop an episode depends on the cause. Allergic swelling often responds well to antihistamines or epinephrine, while hereditary or drug-induced cases require specific medical therapies. If you are having trouble breathing, always seek emergency care immediately.