Allergic swelling, also called allergic angioedema, is a consequence of exposure to substances that trigger allergic reactions. It is usually localized around the eyes, lips, hands, feet and / or throat. It can be annoying and alarming, but it disappears spontaneously. If it doesn't affect your breathing, you can treat it yourself. If it persists, gets worse, or prevents you from breathing well, see your doctor. Fortunately, you also have the option of preventing this inflammation.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Treating Bloating at Home
Step 1. Take an antihistamine
It will block the body's response to the allergen, relieving swelling. You can go to the pharmacy and choose a counter, but your doctor can prescribe the one that best suits your health needs.
- Some antihistamines cause drowsiness, can act quickly and contemplate different dosages. If you have to take it during the day, choose a molecule that does not lead to prolonged numbness among the side effects. For example, cetirizine (Zyrtec), loratadine (Clarityn) and fexofenadine (Telfast) are all molecules that offer relief from allergy symptoms within 24 hours, but induce sleepiness.
- Make sure you follow all the instructions in the package insert.
- Do not take it for more than a week without your doctor's advice.
- Consult your doctor before taking an antihistamine.
Step 2. Use a cold pack on the affected area for 20 minutes at a time maximum
By applying the ice pack, you will reduce the inflammatory reaction of the organism. You will relieve both swelling and pain.
Do not put ice directly on the skin. Wrap it in a cloth, otherwise you could burn yourself
Step 3. Stop taking any medications, supplements, or herbal compounds not prescribed by your doctor
Unfortunately, they can trigger allergic reactions in some people, but common over-the-counter medications, including ibuprofen, can also cause them.
Get your doctor's approval before you start taking them again
Step 4. Use your inhaler in case of throat swelling
It will help you open your airways. However, if you are having difficulty breathing, you should be examined immediately.
Call emergency services if breathing difficulties arise
Step 5. Use an epinephrine auto-injector (epipen) in emergencies
The active ingredient of this medical device is epinephrine, also called adrenaline. Helps to quickly relieve the symptoms of allergic reactions.
- After taking the drug, see your doctor immediately.
- If you don't have epipen on hand, go to the emergency room, where they can give you the drug.
Part 2 of 3: Medical Assistance
Step 1. See your doctor if swelling is persistent or severe
If it does not hinder breathing, it should disappear with self-medication. However, if it doesn't get better after a few hours or it starts to get worse, you should see your doctor. He may prescribe a more effective therapy, such as corticosteroids.
- Also consult it if this is your first time experiencing this reaction.
- Call emergency services if you have difficulty breathing, hear abnormal noises while breathing, or feel faint.
Step 2. Ask your doctor if you need to take an oral corticosteroid
It is a drug that relieves inflammatory processes, reducing the associated swelling. Often, it is used when the antihistamine is unable to dampen the body's reaction.
- For example, your doctor may prescribe prednisone for you.
- Corticosteroids can cause side effects, including water retention which, in turn, causes generalized swelling, hypertension, weight gain, glaucoma, mood swings, behavioral and memory problems.
- If you have severe reactions, your doctor may give you the corticosteroid via an intravenous injection.
- When you need to take the medications he has prescribed for you, follow his instructions to the letter.
Step 3. Undergo allergy tests, if necessary, to find out the triggers
Your doctor is likely to prescribe this test for you. You will need to go to an allergist. The tests consist in the application of a modest quantity of various allergens through light scratches on the skin to favor its penetration. It will then observe the reaction to each substance to detect any allergies.
- The allergist will evaluate the results of the tests. Based on this information, he or she may recommend effective treatments, such as avoiding exposure to triggers and, if possible, specific immunotherapy for your allergy by gradually administering the allergen.
- A single reaction, especially if mild, does not justify the prescription of allergy tests or therapy. Conversely, if it is severe or prolonged and disabling, it is necessary to undergo this examination.
Part 3 of 3: Preventing Allergic Swelling
Step 1. Avoid triggers
In other words, you need to stay away from anything you are allergic to, such as foods, substances or plants. Limiting exposure to triggers is the best way to prevent the swelling that accompanies the allergic reaction. Here are some helpful hints:
- Check the list of ingredients on the packages of the foods you want to eat;
- Ask what foods and drinks contain;
- Avoid taking medications, supplements, or herbal medicines without first consulting your doctor.
- Keep your home clean and allergen-free. For example, avoid dust build-up by cleaning often with a tool that can catch particles.
- Uses a HEPA (anti-particulate) air filter.
- Avoid being in contact with nature at times of the year when the pollen concentration is quite high. Alternatively, wear a face mask.
- Avoid getting close to pets that can trigger allergic reactions due to their fur.
Step 2. Take the medications
Your doctor may prescribe an antihistamine to take every day. This could be a molecule that does not cause drowsiness within 24 hours, such as cetirizine (Zyrtec) or loratadine (Clarityn), or other treatments, such as using the inhaler or taking a corticosteroid. In any case, follow his directions.
If you miss a dose, keep in mind that your body will be more vulnerable to triggers
Step 3. Avoid anything that increases swelling
Often, it is high temperatures, spicy foods or alcohol. While they are not the direct cause of angioedema, they can worsen the situation or promote swelling.
