What Does Angioedema on Lips Look Like?

What does angioedema on the lips look like?

Swelling is the most common sign of angioedema. It typically comes on quickly, within minutes or hours.

In addition to the lips, other parts of the face, such as the eyes, tongue, or inside of the mouth, may also become swollen.

Angioedema is described as non-pitting, meaning that putting pressure on the swelling does not cause an indentation.

In some cases, itchy hives may develop alongside angioedema, but angioedema itself does not cause itchiness.

Other organs, such as the larynx in the throat or the lining of the gut, can also be affected by angioedema. While this may not be visible, it can cause serious symptoms like difficulty breathing or abdominal pain.

Causes of angioedema of the lips

There are several possible causes of angioedema, including genetics and exposure to potential triggers.

Drug-induced angioedema, which is caused by medications that can affect the health of blood vessels, is a common cause of facial swelling and angioedema of the lips. This is often caused by:

• angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors
• nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen
• angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs)

Swelling of the lips may also indicate an allergic type of angioedema caused by oral exposure to an allergen. Common allergic triggers that can cause angioedema include:

• foods, such as peanuts or shellfish
• medications, such as antibiotics
• latex
• insect bites or stings

Hereditary angioedema, a rare genetic disorder, can also cause swelling of the lips. Finally, angioedema can be idiopathic, meaning no cause can be found.

The pattern of swelling, the timing of onset, and family history can all help healthcare professionals better understand the cause of angioedema.

When to seek medical attention

In some cases, angioedema of the lips may resolve on its own. In many cases, though, medications may be needed to relieve swelling and prevent further and potentially severe complications.

Immediate medical attention is recommended if:

• your lips, mouth, or tongue become swollen very suddenly
• your breathing is affected
• you have difficulty swallowing
• your lips or tongue change color
• you feel confused, drowsy, or dizzy
• fainting or loss of consciousness occurs

Angioedema of the mouth and throat can have serious, potentially life threatening consequences if the airways become blocked. In such cases, emergency medical intervention is required.

Treatment for angioedema of the lips will depend on the underlying cause. Medications such as antihistamines, steroids, or epinephrine may be used. If breathing is affected, mechanical interventions like intubation (in which a tube is inserted into the throat) or airway surgery may be required.

Outlook with treatment

The outlook for angioedema depends on the underlying cause of the condition.

If swelling is caused by exposure to an allergen, symptoms typically resolve within a couple of days. Angioedema caused by taking certain medications, such as ACE inhibitors, may take a little longer to resolve.

Although angioedema can be very serious and can lead to hospitalization, death from angioedema is rare.

However, inherited forms of angioedema may be linked with an unfavorable outlook, as they can cause chronic, recurring episodes of potentially severe swelling.

Takeaway

Angioedema refers to swelling of deep tissues within the skin and soft tissues of the body, with the lips being commonly affected.

Although angioedema of the lips isn’t typically severe on its own, swelling of other areas of the mouth and airways can cause serious complications, and immediate medical attention may be needed.

Managing angioedema can typically include medications and supportive care based on the cause of the swelling.

If you notice sudden, unexplained swelling of the lips, tongue, or face, be sure to contact a healthcare professional right away for prompt evaluation and treatment.