Quincke’s edema: what it is and how to remedy it

Quincke’s edema is a rapid swelling of the mucous membranes that can present as an allergic reaction. Let’s find out what it is specifically and how to treat it.

When we talk about Quincke’s edema (also called angioneurotic or hereditary edema) we mean a sudden swelling of the mucous membranes which, depending on the place of formation, can be extremely dangerous.
This happens due to a defect in the C1 inhibitor , the enzyme that regulates the way the immune system is activated. It therefore occurs in the phase of allergy or alert by the immune system.

Quincke’s angioedema: what it is and why it occurs

For Quincke’s edema, the causes are known to be allergic, usually due to a deficiency in the C1 inhibitor or to its malfunction. Sometimes this deficiency can occur as a result of autoimmune or other diseases that can lead to a C1 deficiency. Among the triggering effects of Quincke’s disease are food allergies, trauma due to intubation or illness and sometimes even stress or too much cold.

It is therefore a condition that can occur at different times and that is why it is important to learn to recognize. Quincke’s edema has more common symptoms than others which are:

– Swelling of the face
– Intestinal blockage
– Nausea and vomiting
– Swelling of the hands

As you can imagine, depending on where it forms it can be very dangerous. Near the airways, for example, Quincke’s syndrome could prevent breathing.

How to act when this edema occurs

The first thing to do when you have sudden and sudden swelling is to go to the emergency room. In this way, in the event of sudden worsening, the necessary assistance can be obtained.

As for the treatments, in the event of an acute attack, an injection of a C1 concentrate is usually used.
More generally, however, there are several treatments that can be implemented in order to keep the problem under control. These, however, will be chosen on a case-by-case basis by the attending physician.

That said, knowing the problem in order to prevent it and know how to act in certain circumstances is the best thing to do. Reason why, at the first event it is advisable to do all the necessary examinations to frame the problem and aim for the most suitable treatment.