Prepare to be surprised by the everyday medications that could be behind the dangerous swelling known as angioedema. Keep reading to uncover more about these unexpected culprits.
Medications Linked to Angioedema
1. ACE Inhibitors (Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors)
Commonly prescribed for high blood pressure and heart failure, these medications, including enalapril, lisinopril, and ramipril, are a major cause of angioedema. 1 If you're on ACE inhibitors, stay informed about the potential risk of angioedema as a side effect.
2. NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs)
Used widely for pain relief and inflammation, NSAIDs like ibuprofen and naproxen can trigger angioedema in some cases. While effective for pain management, be cautious of their potential to cause angioedema, especially if you're sensitive to them.
3. Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers (ARBs)
Similar to ACE inhibitors, ARBs used for hypertension management can lead to angioedema. If you're on ARBs and have a history of drug-induced angioedema, be mindful of this risk.
4. Beta-Blockers
Primarily used for various heart conditions, beta-blockers can sometimes cause angioedema. Although less common than with ACE inhibitors, this side effect still poses a potential risk.
5. Estrogens
Hormonal medications containing estrogens, like oral contraceptives and hormone replacement therapy, have been associated with angioedema. Women taking these medications should be alert to the possibility of this reaction, particularly if they have other risk factors. 2
6. Immunosuppressants
Drugs that modify the immune system's function, often used in autoimmune diseases or organ transplantation, may lead to angioedema. 3 The risk varies based on the specific immunosuppressant and the individual's response.
7. Certain Antibiotics
Some antibiotics, especially those in the penicillin class, can cause allergic reactions, including angioedema. If you have a history of penicillin or antibiotic allergies, discuss this with your healthcare provider.
Other Triggers of Angioedema
1. Allergic Reactions
Allergic reactions are a common cause of angioedema, triggered by various allergens like foods, insect stings, pollen, and animal dander. These allergens can prompt swelling in deeper layers of the skin, characteristic of angioedema.
2. Hereditary Angioedema (HAE)
HAE is a rare genetic condition resulting in recurrent episodes of significant swelling, not triggered by external allergens and unresponsive to typical treatments. This type of angioedema stems from a genetic defect in the blood proteins controlling inflammation.
3. Idiopathic Angioedema
At times, angioedema's exact cause remains unknown, leading to a diagnosis of idiopathic angioedema. This poses a challenge as the lack of a known cause makes prevention and treatment difficult.
4. Pseudoallergic Reactions
Pseudoallergic reactions triggered by certain food additives or preservatives can cause symptoms akin to allergic reactions but without involving the immune system.
5. Infections
Various infections, caused by viruses, bacteria, or parasites, can occasionally result in angioedema, as the body's response to these infections can manifest as swelling, a hallmark of angioedema.
6. Autoimmune Disorders
Autoimmune conditions like lupus, thyroiditis, and specific cancers have been linked to angioedema, where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues, leading to inflammation and swelling.
7. Physical Factors
Physical factors such as stress, minor injuries, pressure, and exposure to extreme temperatures or sunlight can also trigger angioedema, causing direct physical reactions resulting in swelling.
Crucial Reminder
It's important to recognize that angioedema can be a medical emergency, especially if the swelling affects the throat and impacts breathing. 4 If you suspect angioedema, especially if breathing or swallowing becomes difficult, seek immediate medical help.
Diagnosis and treatment depend on the underlying cause. For drug-induced angioedema, discontinuing the culprit drug is typically the initial step, followed by symptom management. Other types may require antihistamines, corticosteroids, or different medications. For hereditary angioedema, specific therapies to replace the deficient protein may be necessary. Always consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.
Citations:
2 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5652893/