Before
After
Attacks involving the throat/airway are the most dangerous as they can close the airway and cause death by choking.
Death from throat/airway swelling in untreated patients with HAE can be as high as 30%.
What is HAE?
H
Hereditary
Caused by mutations (changes) in certain genes or chromosomes that are passed down from parent to child.
A
Angio
Relating to the blood vessels.
E
Edema
Swelling caused by too much fluid in body tissues.
HAE is a very rare and potentially life-threatening genetic condition that causes symptoms of painful swelling in various parts of the body, including: hands, feet, face and throat/airway.
What are the symptoms of HAE?
- See what it looks like in real life.
Face/throat* Stomach*
Before
After
Stomach/gastrointestinal attacks cause excruciating abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Hands/feet*
Before
After
Swelling of the hands and feet is painful, disfiguring and disabling.
*Images reproduced with permission from the US Hereditary Angioedema Association.
HAE swelling is NOT the same as the swelling normally associated with an allergic reaction and cannot be treated similarly. It’s important to correctly identify HAE so that it can be properly managed.
Did you know?
Attacks of HAE may be triggered by certain things. Read on to learn more about HAE triggers.
HAE triggers
Many patients with HAE have identified certain activities or situations that tend to trigger their swelling attacks. Knowing your triggers and adequately monitoring your attack history can help you avoid those triggers or be prepared to act accordingly if an attack occurs.
Common HAE triggers
Emotional stress
Surgery
Anesthesia
Alcohol
Dental procedures
Some medications used to treat high blood pressure
Hormone replacement therapy
Birth control pills containing estrogen
Menstruation
Trauma
Infections
Fatigue
Managing your triggers can help you better take control of your health – learn more about how to live with HAE here!