- Angioedema is swelling in the deep layers of the skin, often seen with urticaria (hives). Angioedema most often occurs in soft tissues such as the eyelids, mouth or genitals.
- Angioedema is called “acute” if the condition lasts only a short time (minutes to days). This is commonly caused by an allergic reaction to medications or foods.
- Chronic recurrent angioedema is when the condition returns over a long period of time. It most often does not have an identifiable cause.
- Hereditary angioedema (HAE) is a rare, but serious genetic condition involving swelling in various body parts including the hands, feet, face, intestinal wall and airways.