Hereditary Angioedema

What is hereditary angioedema?

Hereditary angioedema (HAE) is a rare genetic condition that causes unpredictable episodes of severe swelling in various parts of the body. These swelling episodes, called angioedema, can affect the skin, throat, hands, feet, and digestive tract. Unlike allergic reactions, HAE swelling is not caused by allergens and does not respond to typical allergy medications like antihistamines or corticosteroids.

HAE occurs due to a deficiency or dysfunction of a protein called C1-esterase inhibitor, which normally helps regulate fluid balance in tissues. Without proper regulation, fluid can accumulate beneath the skin and mucous membranes, causing painful and sometimes life-threatening swelling.

Who is this service for?

Hereditary angioedema services are designed for patients who have been diagnosed with HAE or who experience recurrent, unexplained swelling episodes that may suggest HAE. If you have a family history of angioedema, frequent swelling without an obvious allergic trigger, or swelling that does not respond to standard allergy treatments, our specialists can help evaluate and manage your condition.

Early diagnosis and proper management are essential, as untreated HAE can lead to serious complications, particularly if swelling affects the airway.

What to expect during your visit

During your initial consultation, our immunologists will take a detailed medical and family history to understand your swelling patterns, triggers, and any previous episodes. We may perform blood tests to measure C1-esterase inhibitor levels and function, which help confirm an HAE diagnosis.

Your specialist will discuss your symptoms, review any previous treatments you have tried, and work with you to develop a personalized management plan. We will also educate you about recognizing early warning signs and when to seek emergency care.

Treatment and management options

Treatment for hereditary angioedema may include several approaches, depending on the type and severity of your condition:

• Prophylactic medications to prevent swelling episodes before they occur
• On-demand medications to treat acute swelling episodes when they happen
• Lifestyle modifications and trigger identification to reduce episode frequency
• Emergency action planning for severe swelling, especially involving the throat or airway
• Regular monitoring and follow-up to assess treatment effectiveness

At Denver Allergy & Asthma Associates, we stay current with the latest HAE treatment options and work closely with you to find the approach that best fits your lifestyle and medical needs.

Why choose Denver Allergy & Asthma Associates?

Our board-certified allergists and immunologists have extensive experience managing rare conditions like hereditary angioedema. We serve patients throughout the Denver metro area, including Boulder, Lakewood, Westminster, Littleton, and Arvada. We understand that HAE can be unpredictable and frightening, and we are committed to providing compassionate, expert care that helps you feel confident managing your condition.

If you or a family member may have hereditary angioedema, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with our team. Early diagnosis and proper management can significantly improve your quality of life and reduce the risk of serious complications. Contact Denver Allergy & Asthma Associates today to book your appointment.

This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any health decisions.