OpenHealth Q&A

Exploring Angioedema: A Patient's Journey

A 27-year-old female, 152 cm tall and weighing 135 lbs, has maintained good health with a history of consistent medication use. She has been on Tri-Circa Lo for the past eight years. In the summer of 2024, she noticed swelling and redness on the right side of her nose, which affected only the skin's surface. Seeking medical assistance, she was diagnosed with a skin infection and prescribed a three-day course of oral antibiotics. Remarkably, the symptoms subsided entirely within this period. However, just a week later, in July 2024, she encountered another episode; this time, swelling and redness appeared on her right upper eyelid, extending to the brow. The occurrence was rapid, manifesting within four hours, and the eye nearly closed shut, yet it was painless and did not feel warm. An attempt to alleviate the symptoms with over-the-counter antihistamines proved ineffective, prompting her to seek emergency care. There, she received a diagnosis of periorbital cellulitis and was given a ten-day prescription for oral penicillin. Fortunately, her symptoms improved in a few days. In the subsequent weeks and months, she experienced occasional swelling of the upper eyelid—sometimes affecting both eyes—without any associated redness. To manage these episodes, she applied cool compresses and performed gentle massages and this routine caused her little concern. Fast forward three months post-recovery from the periorbital cellulitis, the same symptoms returned in October 2024, again affecting her right eye, with an equally rapid onset and no accompanying pain. Interestingly, this time, she also observed swelling extending up to her right wrist. Once more seeking emergency medical attention, she was re-diagnosed with periorbital cellulitis and was treated with seven days of IV antibiotics, leading to a quick resolution of her symptoms. Despite completing her antibiotic courses, which had caused gastrointestinal and skin issues, she now grapples with lingering apprehension about potential recurrences. Even though the swelling persists intermittently without redness, she continues to manage it with cool compresses and massage therapy. A recent consultation with an ophthalmologist brought a surprising twist: the professional disagreed with the previous periorbital cellulitis diagnoses and suggested that her condition might actually stem from angioedema. The results of her eye examination were normal. Subsequently, she was referred to an allergist, but she anticipates a lengthy wait of up to a year for that appointment in Canada. In the meantime, she plans to follow up with her family doctor. The ophthalmologist advised her to do some personal research and compile a list of tests or laboratory evaluations that her family doctor could order during her upcoming visit. Given this context, what blood work or laboratory tests would be beneficial to suggest? Thank you for your insights.

Answers (1)

6/30/2025, 6:31:03 PM

OpenHealth AI

It sounds like you’ve been going through quite a challenging time with recurrent swelling and some uncertainty regarding your diagnosis. Given your symptoms and the ophthalmologist's suggestion of angioedema, it's important to explore this possibility further. Below, I've outlined some steps and potential tests that might be helpful in assessing your condition.

Summary of Main Points

1. Possible Angioedema: This is swelling that can occur under the skin, often triggered by allergic reactions or other factors.
2. Recommended Tests: Consider suggesting blood tests that can help determine possible causes or triggers of your symptoms.
3. Next Steps: Gather this information to discuss with your family doctor during your upcoming appointment.

Explanation

Angioedema can be caused by various factors, including allergies, medications (like your contraceptive), or genetic conditions. Symptoms often involve swelling in areas like the eyes, lips, and other parts of the body. Since you've had recurrent episodes of swelling without pain or redness, it's reasonable to look into this condition more deeply through lab work.

Recommended Blood Tests

1. Complete Blood Count (CBC): This test helps to evaluate your overall health and detect various conditions, such as infections or immune system disorders.

2. Allergy Testing:

   • Specific IgE Test: This test can check for specific allergies, such as to certain foods or environmental allergens.
   • Total IgE Levels: A general measure of your body's immune response could indicate an allergic tendency.

3. C4 Complement Levels: Low levels of this protein can be associated with hereditary angioedema.

4. Histamine Levels: If suspected angioedema is related to mast cell activity, measuring histamine may provide useful insight.

5. Thyroid Function Tests: To rule out thyroid issues, which can sometimes cause similar symptoms.

6. Liver Function Tests: If there’s a concern regarding liver health, which can also impact swelling.

Next Steps

• Compile the Tests: Make a list of the suggested tests to discuss with your family doctor. This can help in initiating a focused evaluation.
• Monitor Symptoms: Keep a diary of when swelling occurs, including potential triggers (food, environmental factors, activities), timelines, and specific symptoms. This information can be invaluable for your doctor.
• Consider Your Current Medications: Review your medication list with your doctor to ensure nothing could be contributing to your symptoms.

Final Notes

While waiting for your allergist appointment, these steps can help streamline your care and potentially identify the cause of your symptoms. It’s understandable to feel anxious about recurring issues, but you’re taking proactive steps by seeking more information and medical advice. Remember to share any new symptoms with your doctor as they arise. Your ongoing health is important, and you deserve clarity regarding your condition.