Quincke inflammation causes. Quincke's edema (Angioneurotic edema, Giant urticaria)

Allergic condition, expressed in the maximum acute manifestations The reasons for its occurrence may be different. This condition is characterized by severe edema skin and mucous membranes. Less commonly, it can manifest itself in the joints, meninges and internal organs. Usually this symptom is observed in people who are prone to allergies.

Features of the development of the symptom

Why do we say that angioedema, the causes of which lie in allergies, is a symptom? Everything is simple. It is caused precisely by a painful reaction of the body to any allergen. To understand how to help the patient, one should consider the mechanisms for the development of symptoms. Quincke's edema causes the following categories:

Vegetable and household factors in the form of pollen, dust, fluff and so on.
Certain foods.
Pharmaceutical factor - an allergy to any drug or substance included in it.
Chemical factor - hair dyes, household chemicals, cosmetics, Construction Materials etc.

It is divided into two varieties - immediate and delayed. Quincke's edema, the causes of which we examined, is precisely the immediate reaction of the body to an irritant (allergen). And this is extremely dangerous form manifestations of the disease. An allergen, entering the body, causes it to produce a huge amount of histamine, which is normally inactive. It begins to quickly activate, be released, turning into pathological condition. At the same time, swelling begins to appear immediately, followed by thickening of the blood, which leads to this symptomatology.

The first type is allergic, which is caused by allergens of one kind or another. It always manifests itself as a special specific response from the body. Most often it manifests itself due to food allergies.

Non-allergic, or Quincke's pseudoedema, occurs in those who have a congenital tendency.

An allergen, entering the body, activates proteins that are designed to eliminate the irritant of the protective mechanism, producing any disruption in the work of the complement leads to the fact that an extensive allergic reaction occurs and develops.

When not allergic form puffiness concerns the skin, mucous membranes, stomach and intestines. The most aggravated forms of this symptom appear when a person experiences temperature changes, injuries or stressful situations.

But a third of the cases cannot be explained even by world-famous specialists. For such situations, food and insect bites, blood flow diseases, autoimmune diseases are likely.

It is also worth noting different types Quincke's edema, which characterize and share the course of processes in the body. This is an acute (up to 1.5 months), chronic (from six weeks), acquired, hereditary, limited and a form accompanied by urticaria.

Symptoms of an allergic reaction

This is the body's response to the allergen. severe edema skin, in which the integument acquires a strong pallor. Most often there is swelling of the facial covering, feet, back surfaces hands Pain is absent. Puffiness of the skin is very dense, with pressure does not form the usual normal skin pits. Urticaria with characteristic itching and red spots may appear.

But the main danger lies in the swelling of the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract, which can simply close. A person dies of asphyxia, that is, simply suffocates. Swelling of the larynx, pharynx, trachea is extremely dangerous and manifests itself in shortness of breath, anxiety, barking cough, hoarse voice, blue skin, followed by blanching. Last stage- loss of consciousness from lack of oxygen. It is easy to determine such edema by the swelling of the palate, the narrowing of the pharynx.

puffiness internal organs manifests itself in severe pain in the abdomen, diarrhea, vomiting, tingling of the tongue and palate. In such cases, external puffiness may not be observed. Edema of the meninges is manifested by lethargy, lethargy, inability to touch the chin to the chest when the head is tilted, nausea, convulsions. Edema with different localization is manifested by lethargy or excitability, joint pain, fever.

How to quickly remove Quincke's edema

First, regardless of the patient's condition, it is necessary to call a doctor, since the disease can develop for more than one hour. Second, isolate the victim from the allergen. If bitten by an insect, remove the sting, if the problem is caused by drugs, food, drink - do not let them use. Reassure the patient, as emotional stress leads to a rapid deterioration in the condition. Fresh air is needed. Remove the tie, belt, corset from the victim, loosen the collar. It is necessary to open the window. For maximum relief of swelling, apply cold compress to the site of injury.

If the patient was bitten by an insect or had an injection, it is necessary to apply a tourniquet to reduce the intake of the allergen into the body. It is necessary to remove the allergen from the human body with the help of drinking - water at room temperature in large quantities. It is also necessary to give the patient a sorbent, an antihistamine, drip If there is severe asphyxia with the inability to breathe, you should do Further treatment- for the doctors.

Quincke's edema is an acute condition in which there is significant swelling of the skin layers and subcutaneous fat, sometimes with involvement in pathological process mucous membranes. The disease is named after the doctor G. Quincke, who first described it in 1882. The second name of the pathology is angioedema.

Quincke's edema - causes

Like urticaria, Quincke's edema is associated with vasodilation and an increase in their permeability to the liquid medium of the blood, however, in this case, edema appears not in the superficial, but in the deep skin layers, mucous tissues, and subcutaneous fat layer. The accumulation in the tissues of the penetrating interstitial fluid determines the edema. Expansion of blood vessels and an increase in their permeability occurs due to the release of biologically active substances(bradykinin, histamine, etc.), which occurs as a result of an immune response under the influence of certain factors.

One of the rare varieties of the pathology under consideration - hereditary angioedema - is associated with a violation in the complement system, inherited. The complement system, which consists of a combination of protein structures, is important component immune system, which is involved in inflammatory and allergic reactions. The regulation of this system occurs due to a number of enzymes, among which is the C1 inhibitor. With a deficiency of this enzyme, uncontrolled complement activation and a massive release of substances that cause edema occur.

The first signs of hereditary Quincke's edema may appear even in childhood, but in most cases debut in puberty or in middle age. The development of an attack is often preceded by certain provocative phenomena:

infections;
strong emotional stress;
surgery;
trauma;
taking any medications.

Allergic angioedema

Allergy is the most common cause of Quincke's edema. In this case, the disease is often combined with other diseases of an allergic nature - hay fever, bronchial asthma, urticaria, etc. If the mechanism for the appearance of the pathology in question is an allergy, Quincke's edema acts as a kind of response to an irritant. As irritating factors can be:

food products and food additives (fish, citrus fruits, honey, nuts, chocolate, flavors, dyes, preservatives, etc.);
feathers and down of birds;
insect poison and saliva;
room dust;
household chemicals;
solar radiation;
high or low temperatures;
medicines, etc.

Idiopathic angioedema

There is also idiopathic angioedema, the cause of which cannot be determined. In this case, attacks of an inadequate reaction of the body cannot be associated with any specific antecedent factors. This form pathology, many experts call the most dangerous, because, without knowing what provokes edema, it is impossible to prevent its occurrence and eliminate the effect of the culprit factor.

Quincke's edema - symptoms

Angioedema the symptoms are pronounced, which are difficult to ignore, including because they can cause considerable discomfort and impede the functioning of certain parts of the body. Edema in the affected area is visible to the naked eye, the skin (or mucous membrane) looks swollen, while practically not changing its shade (only later it can noticeably turn pale).

Common areas of localization are:

face;
oral cavity;
language;
larynx;
trachea;
genitals;
upper and lower limbs;
internal organs (stomach, intestines, bladder, meninges, etc.).

In the affected area, patients feel tension, tightness, mild soreness, burning, tingling, rarely itching. Affected internal organs can cause reactions such as sharp pains in the abdomen, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, pain when urinating, headache etc. Affected Airways react with the appearance of shortness of breath, cough, shortness of breath, can provoke suffocation. Allergic Quincke's edema is often accompanied by the appearance of itchy red rashes. Harbingers of puffiness can be a slight burning sensation and itching.

How quickly does Quincke's edema develop?

In most cases, if an allergic reaction takes part in the development mechanism, Quincke's edema appears rapidly, starting suddenly. Symptoms develop within 5-30 minutes, and resolution should be expected after a few hours or 2-3 days. With a non-allergic nature of the pathology, swelling often develops within 2-3 hours and disappears after 2-3 days.

Angioedema of the larynx

Angioedema of the throat poses a serious danger to the body and can even cause a sudden death. In just a few minutes, the airways can become completely blocked due to swollen tissues. Danger signs that should be an urgent reason to call an ambulance are:

bluing of the skin of the face;
severe wheezing;
sharp drop blood pressure;
convulsions.

Angioedema of the face

Quincke's edema on the face, the photo of which shows severe symptoms, is often localized in the region of the eyelids, cheeks, nose, lips. At the same time, the palpebral fissures can sharply narrow, the nasolabial folds can be smoothed out, and one or both lips can sharply increase in size. Edema can quickly move to the neck area, affect the airways and block the air supply. Therefore, Quincke's edema on the face should be stopped as early as possible.

Angioedema of the extremities

Signs of Quincke's edema, localized on the arms and legs, are often observed on back side feet and palms. This type of reaction is less common than those described above and does not pose a particular threat to the functioning of the body, although it causes significant discomfort. In addition to the appearance of limited areas of compaction on the limbs, the skin may acquire a bluish tint.

What to do with angioedema?

Patients who have had an episode of sudden swelling of one or another part of the body at least once in their life should know how to relieve Quincke's edema, because the pathology can reappear suddenly. First of all, you should call an ambulance, especially when swelling appears in the respiratory tract or there is a suspicion of localization of the pathology in the internal organs. Prior to the arrival of paramedics, first aid measures must be taken.

Quincke's edema - first aid

Emergency care for angioedema that can be done before you arrive ambulance, includes the following steps:

Isolation of the victim from the action of the stimulus (if installed).
Ensuring free access to clean air.
Release the patient from squeezing clothing and accessories.
Positioning the patient in a semi-sitting or sitting position to facilitate breathing.
Maintaining a calm environment around, preventing panic.
Applying a cold compress to the affected area.
Security plentiful drink(preferably alkaline).
Taking medication: vasoconstrictor drops in the nose (Naphthyzin, Otrivin), antihistamines(Fenistil, Suprastin) and sorbents (Enterosgel, Atoxil) inside.

The above measures, which provide assistance with Quincke's edema, are necessary, first of all, when there is:

swelling of the nose;
swelling of the lips;
swelling of the oral mucosa;
swelling of the throat, larynx;
swelling of the neck;
swelling of internal organs.

How to treat Quincke's edema?

emergency drug therapy to eliminate acute edema and recovery vital functions may include the use of such drugs:

Adrenaline - with a decrease in blood pressure;
Prednisolone, - with Quincke's edema, the main manifestations are removed;
Glucose, Hemodez, Reopoliglyukin - to eliminate the state of shock and remove toxins;
Diphenhydramine, Suprastin injection - with an allergic reaction;
Furosemide, Mannitol - in normal and high blood pressure to remove excess fluid and allergens;
Eufillin with Dexamethasone - to relieve bronchial spasm, etc.

Non-allergic Quincke's edema has a different treatment, sometimes carried out by transfusion of blood plasma and the use of such drugs:

Z-aminocaproic acid;
Contrykal.

outside acute stage treatment may include:

exclusion of established stimuli;
short courses of hormone therapy (Prednisolone, Dexazon);
the use of drugs to strengthen nervous system and decrease in vascular permeability (Ascorutin, calcium, vitamin complexes);
taking antihistamines (Loratadine, Suprastin, Cetirizine).

One of the most severe manifestations of an allergic reaction is Quincke's edema. This state first described by the doctor Heinrich Quincke, this pathology is named after him. Another medical name this disease is angioedema. The disease occurs in only 2% of people who are prone to allergic reactions. The disease develops rapidly and requires urgent medical intervention. Due to reasons that are not fully understood, it often occurs in women or a child.

What is angioedema

Angioedema of this type is characterized by local swelling of the skin, lesions of the mucous membranes, subcutaneous tissue pseudo-allergic or allergic nature. As a rule, a reaction occurs on the cheeks, lips, eyelids, tongue, neck, much less often it can occur on the mucous membranes, for example, the genitourinary organs, the gastrointestinal tract, and the respiratory tract. In the latter case, air permeability may be impaired, which causes the risk of asphyxia.

Symptoms

Quincke's disease has pronounced symptoms, they can persist from several minutes to several hours, in rare cases days don't go by. Usually, all manifestations disappear without a trace, but with chronic form pathology relapses. The main symptoms of Quincke's edema:

It develops very quickly and suddenly, in 5-20 minutes (in rare cases, 1-2 hours).
There is a serious swelling of the subcutaneous tissue, mucous membranes to dense painless swelling, it occurs on the cheeks, nose, tongue, lips, eyelids, mucous membranes of the mouth, tracheobronchial tract, larynx, inner ear, sometimes affects the meninges, stomach, genitals, intestines.
One of characteristic features Quincke - the absence of pain, unpleasant sensations appear only when palpated, there is a feeling of fullness, tissue tension, density.
The typical localization of edema is on the upper body (face). Extremely dangerous for human life will be swelling of the larynx, trachea. This condition is a medical emergency.
In 20% of cases of angioedema, the pathology is not accompanied by itching of the skin, but half of the patients have urticaria, which is characterized by burning and blisters.
A common allergic reaction calls for nasal congestion, watery eyes, conjunctival itching, sneezing, fever, weakness, and headache.

Causes of angioedema

To avoid a life-threatening condition, you need to know what causes allergic swelling. This may be individual circumstances for each person, but the most common risk factors include the following:

In medicine, Quincke's syndrome, taking into account the accompanying factors and the main ones, is usually classified according to the following algorithm:

acute edema- symptoms persist for up to 45 days;
chronic - signs will last longer than 6 weeks with periodic relapses;
acquired - for the entire period of observation, this type was recorded only 50 times in people over 50 years old;
hereditary angioedema - 1 case per 150 thousand patients is recorded;
swelling along with symptoms of urticaria;
isolated - no additional states.

Physicians focus necessarily on two types dangerous edema with similar external manifestations:

angioedema;
hereditary (non-allergic).

With the same signs of the disease, the cause of development is absolutely different factors. This situation often leads to an incorrect diagnosis, which is fraught with serious complications, the use of an incorrect scheme. emergency care, further therapy. It is very important at the stage of assistance to determine which type of pathology has developed in the patient.

Complications

If you do not help a person in time, then Quincke's syndrome can develop and provoke serious complications. Here are the main consequences that can be caused by this pathology:

The most threatening complication may be swelling of the larynx, signs of acute respiratory failure. Symptoms of this complication will be barking cough, hoarseness of voice, progression of difficulty in breathing.
Edema of the gastrointestinal mucosa can cause acute abdominal pathology. Developing sharp pain in the abdomen, dyspeptic disorders, increased peristalsis, in rare cases, symptoms of peritonitis.
Edema of the urogenital system may be accompanied by signs acute cystitis this causes urinary retention.
Dangerous Complications can cause Quincke's syndrome, which is localized on the face. The meninges may be involved in the process, symptoms of meningeal diseases or labyrinth systems will appear (manifested by signs of Meniere's syndrome). This swelling can be fatal without emergency medical treatment.
Can match acute urticaria along with the Quincke reaction.

Diagnostics

After overcoming the crisis and eliminating the threat to life, the following can be appointed laboratory research:

Quantity measurement total immunoglobulin(IgE), which reacts with the allergen and provokes the development allergic symptoms immediate type. An ICLA (immunochemiluminescent) study is carried out, in the results, the IgE index should normally be in the range of 1.31-165.3 IU / ml.
Tests for the detection of specific IgE, which help to determine the root cause (allergens) that provoke an immediate type of edema. The effectiveness of allergy prevention and its treatment depends on the result of this technique.
Determination of violations in the complement system, analysis of function for the control and diagnosis of autoimmune diseases.

After recovery, after a few months, when antibodies are present in the body that have responded to the allergen, the following studies:

Skin allergy tests. Classic method in which a suspected allergen is applied to the surface of the skin. If a person has a susceptibility to this reagent, the skin shows mild inflammation around the site of application of the agent.
Analysis of the immunogram or study of the immune system.
Search for systemic diseases, which often cause Quincke's syndrome.
If there was a pseudo-allergic edema, then it is necessary to examine the entire body, perform a wide range of tests (biochemical, bacteriological), make an ultrasound, x-ray of the organs.

Treatment of angioedema

If the patient has swelling of the larynx, trachea or throat, he is immediately sent for treatment to a hospital. Held medical measures in two stages:

elimination of an allergic reaction;
elimination of symptoms, determination of causes, prescription of treatment.

emergency assistance during acute period in the hospital is aimed at eliminating threatening symptoms, providing normal operation vital functions, if observed state of shock. Doctors must reduce the body's reaction to the allergen. When the described symptoms appear, it is imperative to call an ambulance. The main measures that can be taken for Quincke therapy:

To prevent the symptoms of suffocation, a dangerous drop in pressure is administered intravenously, subcutaneously or intramuscularly with Epinephrine (Adrenaline) in dosages according to the age of the patient. There should be a gap of at least 20 minutes between injections.
You can remove the swelling by injecting hormones at an age dose according to the instructions (Dexamethasone, Prednisolone).
The introduction of drugs intravenously against shock, to remove toxins from the body (Hemodez, Reopoliglyukin, 5% glucose solution).
Intramuscular, intravenous administration of antihistamines (Diphenhydramine, Suprastin).
To increase dangerously low blood pressure and restore blood volume, colloidal, saline solutions.
The patient is given diuretic drugs (Mannitol solution, Lasix, Furosemide), which remove allergens, excess liquid from the body, reduce swelling. May be prescribed for high normal pressure.
If bronchospasm is observed, then intravenously put Dexamethasone with Eufillin.
mask with pure oxygen indicated if there is a pronounced deficiency of it in the blood, superficial, labored breathing, wheezing, bluish mucous membranes and skin.
Hemosorption is a method of active removal of allergens, toxins from the blood, which is passed through absorbent sorbents.

First aid for angioedema

Treat allergic and idiopathic edema different methods, but a person will not be able to independently determine the type of pathology. For this reason, it is necessary to start therapy with medications that are effective in both forms of the disease (antihistamines, adrenaline, glucocorticoid drugs). Immediately you need to call an ambulance and try to stop the spread of edema. Emergency care for Quincke's edema, which can be provided before the doctor arrives:

clear the airways;
check for breathing;
measure blood pressure, pulse;
if necessary, carry out cardiopulmonary resuscitation (artificial respiration);
enter the medications that were described above.

Tablets

It is necessary to treat this pathology with drugs that can block H1 receptors. These include the following drugs:

Lortadin;
Suprastin;
Citrizine.

To antihistamine action drugs was the maximum, additionally prescribe a complex of drugs to block H1 and H2. This group of medicines includes:

Ranitidine;
Famotidine.

There are several forms of drugs for the treatment of angioedema, for maximum effect, solutions are usually prescribed for intravenous administration. This is the most fast way effects on the allergen in the human body. If the cause of the swelling is known, for example, chronic illness, or it does not threaten human life, then tablet forms can be used. Their main difference is that the effect comes a little later.

This is a powerful synthetic glucocorticosteroid, which contains the hormones of the adrenal cortex, their synthetic analogues. This medication is prescribed to control metabolic processes (carbohydrates, proteins, minerals). If there is a need to treat the Quincke reaction with Dexamethasone, you should choose the right dosage. This is done by a doctor on an individual basis, taking into account the patient's condition and sensitivity to medications. The instructions for the drug indicate the following options for taking the drug:

a small dose of 2-6 mg is taken in the morning;
taken 2-3 times a day large dose 10-15 mg;
after achieving the desired result, the dosage is reduced to 0.5-4.5 mg per day;
exit from the course of treatment is carried out smoothly;
if a child is being treated, and not an adult, then the dose is calculated based on 1 kg of weight 0.083-0.33 mg of the drug.

Diet

Food allergens very often cause an angioedema reaction, so the diet must be selected very carefully. Exist certain products, which most often cause the disease:

strawberry;
a fish;
eggs;
seafood;
citrus;
Strawberry;
nuts.

If food has become the cause of the pathology, then doctors sharply limit the diet, but such a diet cannot be maintained for a long time. The body must receive the full spectrum essential substances, so fasting should not be long. Products are introduced smoothly, as a rule, from one type, for example:

The patient begins to use semi-liquid mashed potatoes without adding oil. A serving is 100 g on an empty stomach, then 200 g 4 times a day.
When the body adapts to the need for complete digestion of food, other products are added to potatoes in the same way. It is important that there are no additives in the dishes (exclude butter, milk, fruits, vegetables).
Before the introduction of each product, a “provocation” is first carried out: on an empty stomach, you need to eat 100 g of this dish.

There is a conditional order in which hypoallergenic products should be introduced. The plan for the inclusion of additional dishes depends on nutritional features patient (identified hazardous products). The following sequence is considered the most rational:

potato;
carrot;
dairy products;
bread (preferably stale);
cereals;
beef;
a fish;
poultry meat;
eggs.

Consequences

When an acute condition passes after the development of pathology, a person may experience dyspepsia and abdominal pain for several days. If the urogenital system is affected, then there is acute delay urine, symptoms of cystitis appear. The worst consequence of Quincke's syndrome is fatal outcome due to acute respiratory failure. With meningeal signs of pathology, the following are often noted:

vomit;
nausea;
dizziness.

Forecast and prevention

The outcome of angioedema pathology will depend on the degree of manifestation of edema, the timeliness of emergency care. For example, with an allergic reaction in the larynx in the absence of fast therapeutic actions outcome may be fatal. If the disease is recurrent and is accompanied by urticaria for six months, then in 40% of patients the pathology will be observed for another 10 years, and in 50% - a long remission occurs even without preventive treatment. The hereditary type of angioedema will recur throughout life.

Properly selected preventive, supportive treatment will help to avoid relapse, which significantly reduces the likelihood of developing pathology or complications. Measures to prevent the Quincke reaction depend on the type of pathology:

If there is a history of allergic genesis, then it is important to observe diet food, exclude potentially dangerous medicines.
If it was possible to recognize hereditary angioedema, then you should avoid viral infections, injuries, taking ACE inhibitors, stressful situations, estrogen-containing drugs.

Photo of angioedema

Video

Quincke's edema is an acute condition of swelling of the skin, mucous membranes and subcutaneous fat, which is the result of an allergic reaction, accompanied by increased production of histamine and inflammation. blood vessels. Most often, the symptoms of Quincke's edema in adults appear on the face, spreading to the mucous membrane of the pharynx and larynx. Internal organs, meninges, joints can also be affected. Puffiness develops extremely quickly and is considered emergency which requires urgent medical attention.

An allergic reaction, characterized by rapid swelling, occurs immediately after the pathogen enters the body. Provocateurs can be any allergens that, when absorbed through the skin or mucous membranes, enter the bloodstream, and then cause certain biochemical processes leading to capillary spasm, fluid leakage into the intercellular space, and the appearance of massive swelling. Such processes are most susceptible to adults with a formed immune system and hereditary tendency to allergies.

The development of angioedema is usually accompanied by:

local swelling with deformation of the contours of the facial tissue - the oral region, cheeks, eyes;
sharp pallor, turning into cyanosis;
hoarseness, intermittent cough;
lack of air, suffocation, hypoxia.

Important! When the first signs of edema develop, you need to take necessary measures and seek medical attention immediately. Otherwise, a person may lose consciousness, and then fall into a hypoxic coma.

The photo below shows the most common swelling of the face - lips and eyes.

Main symptoms

The main symptom of the disease is swelling, which is characterized by:

pallor of the skin;
the ability to change localization, "moving" through the body;
high density of education, when pressed on which no traces remain;
the appearance of a feeling of tightness of the skin;
high propagation speed.

In addition, to others general symptoms relate:

lowering blood pressure due to circulatory disorders due to squeezing of blood vessels, causing a slowdown in blood flow;
pain in temporal region, dizziness, nausea, vomiting caused by pressure surges, which is not typical for ordinary allergies;
high body temperature, due to the fact that tissue swelling is similar to the inflammatory process;
blueness of the tongue or other parts of the body, which is the result of impaired circulation and lack of oxygen;
increased anxiety, fear of death.

All other signs of the disease depend on its location. If swelling appears in visible areas of the body, it is immediately visible. It is more difficult to diagnose a disease when it affects the internal organs, brain or joints.

Swelling of the face or throat

The most common type of this pathology is swelling of the face, which becomes puffy, as well as the larynx, trachea or pharynx. The disease may have varying degrees severity - from minor changes in appearance to the strongest manifestations of suffocation, which ends in anaphylactic shock.

by the most dangerous symptoms are considered:

perspiration, hoarseness of voice;
barking cough;
dyspnea;
difficulty breathing, especially when inhaling.

They are a sign that the edema has affected soft tissues larynx, vocal cords and reaches the trachea.

Swelling of internal organs

At allergic edema internal organs are most often affected gastrointestinal tract or urinary system. The gastrointestinal form manifests itself as an acute eating disorder accompanied by phenomena allergic gastritis. The most pronounced symptoms in this case are:

diarrhea, vomiting;
acute pain in the abdomen;
tingling of tongue and palate.

In this case, any changes in the skin are usually absent, which greatly complicates the diagnosis.

When touched genitourinary system there are symptoms similar to an attack of cystitis. Most often, the disease is accompanied by pain in the lower abdomen, swelling, burning of the genital organs, and difficulty urinating.

Swelling of the meninges

Quincke's edema, which affects the brain, is accompanied by signs of serous meningitis:

lethargy, lethargy;
dizziness, headache;
stiffness (numbness) of the occipital muscle;
light-, sound-phobia;
severe nausea;
sometimes convulsions, other neurological disorders.

Due to the increase in the amount of fluid in the intercellular space, tension occurs meninges. This leads to the fact that raising the extended leg in a lying patient causes strong pain, which decrease when the head is thrown back.

Articular form

Joint damage manifests itself:

non-inflammatory swelling of their synovial bag;
shape change;
restriction of mobility.

Despite the absence inflammatory processes, this pathology significantly worsens the condition of the joints.

with urticaria

The combination of angioedema with urticaria is also quite common. In addition to swelling, the disease is accompanied by a number of other symptoms that appear on the skin and mucous membranes:

a rash consisting of blisters of different sizes;
skin itching;
burning sensation.

Due to the characteristic features of both diseases, diagnosis in this case is quite easy.

hereditary form

Hereditary angioedema angioedema is accompanied by the following symptoms:

recurrent appearance of swelling;
recurring abdominal pain with nausea, vomiting;
lack of itching;
development of edema of the larynx, tongue;
sometimes associated with urticaria.

The frequency of exacerbation can be different - from 1 time once a week to 1 time per year.

Features of manifestation

Clinical signs appear immediately after contact with allergens. The disease has abrupt start And fast development– usually within a few minutes.

In addition to a sudden manifestation, this pathology is characterized by other features of the manifestation of symptoms:

puffiness develops in the lower layers of the skin and subcutaneous tissue, often mucous membranes are involved in the pathological process;
edema can form almost anywhere, but most often it is localized in tissues rich in water - in the throat, on the face, hands, feet, genitals;
the affected area is dominated by soreness with a burning sensation in the absence of itching;
lesions most often have an asymmetric shape, do not differ in color from the skin;
clinical manifestations disappear in at least 24 hours, and the elimination of fluid usually takes about 72 hours.

The duration, severity and nature of the symptoms of Quincke's edema in adults depends on the causative agent of the allergic reaction and individual features organism. The disease is potentially life-threatening, so when the first signs appear, you should immediately seek help.

Quincke's edema - dangerous pathology, accompanied by edema of the skin, mucous epithelium and subcutaneous tissue. Lack of timely assistance leads to serious consequences, up to death.

Angioedema most often occurs in people with allergies. The main contingent of patients are young women and children of different ages.

Causes of the disease

Two groups of factors provoke the development of the disease. Depending on the root cause, there are forms of pathology:

Allergic. Tissue edema occurs when a certain allergen enters the body. The reaction can be observed with insect bites, the use of products that provoke allergies. Often pronounced swelling appears as a result of the use of a new type of antibiotics.
Pseudoallergic. The cause of the pathology is a malfunction of the complex of complex proteins involved in the development of immune and allergic reactions. IN healthy body this type of protein is activated only when various allergens penetrate. The failure lies in the spontaneous activation of the protein complex. The result is an unexpected appearance of an allergy.

Symptoms of the disease

Recognizing Quincke's edema is easy. Everyone should know the symptoms of a dangerous pathology:

rapid swelling of the skin, mucous membranes in the affected area;
skin color does not change;
swollen areas do not itch;
a person experiences pain and burning;
enlargement of the tongue, lips, soft palate, tonsils;
with swelling of the larynx, breathing becomes difficult, hoarseness, barking cough appears;
the patient's face turns red at first, then turns sharply pale;
if help is not provided, a person falls into a coma, death occurs from a lack of oxygen.

At severe forms pathology may appear:

vomiting;
diarrhea;
pain in the abdomen.

Localization of manifestations:

face;
upper body;
brushes;
feet;
outer thigh.

In some cases, they swell:

meninges;
joints.

Important! The danger of pathology in the swelling of not only external tissues, but also internal organs. The reaction develops rapidly. There is often no time to think.

Urgent care

The further condition of the patient depends on the awareness of people who are nearby when a sharp swelling of the tissues occurs. Understanding the complexity of the situation, performing certain activities and immediately calling an ambulance often saves a person's life. What to do with angioedema?

Procedure:

Call a doctor. With such a diagnosis, doctors go to the call immediately. Even with satisfactory condition the patient needs to consult a specialist;
calm the victim;
take off tight clothes, tie, belt;
open a window or window, provide maximum fresh air;
give the person sorbents: Activated carbon, Enterosgel, Sorbeks, make you drink more liquid;
if there are antihistamines, give them to the victim immediately. IN home first aid kit there should always be Suprastin, Claritin, Diazolin (for children);
in case of an insect bite or drug injection, apply a cloth moistened with cold water to the bite or injection site;
drip into the nasal passages vasoconstrictor drops.

Upon arrival of the ambulance, doctors provide emergency assistance:

with a decrease in pressure and swelling of the larynx, an adrenaline solution is injected;
undergoing hormone therapy. Dexazone or prednisolone injections are indicated;
toxins are removed with the help of potent entero - and hemosorbents;
Lasix is prescribed - an effective diuretic;
intramuscularly injected 2% solution of Suprastin;
shows drugs that block the action of proteins that caused angioedema.

The list of procedures depends on the condition of the patient. Some of them are carried out on the spot, some activities are carried out in the allergic department of the hospital. patient in the shortest time hospitalized.

Advice! Before the arrival of the medical team, figure out what is the cause of the attack. Perhaps the person has recently taken the new kind medicinal product ate a large number of products, causing allergies or experienced an insect bite. This information will help paramedics.

Treatment

Signs of serious pathology require a balanced approach. The patient is in the hospital for at least a week. With proper therapy, the symptoms disappear quickly enough, but at first constant monitoring of the patient's condition is necessary. Treatment of angioedema at home is unacceptable, Mandatory supervision of specialists is required!

Medical treatment

How to treat Quincke's edema? The therapy is carried out in several stages:

clarification of the cause of the attack;
prohibition of contact with the allergen;
the appointment of drugs that regulate the tone of the nervous system. Effective Ephedrine, vitamin C, formulations containing calcium;
decrease in the level of histamines and protein activity. Assign Diphenhydramine, Tavegil, Atropine, Suprastin;
to increase the elasticity of blood vessels and improve general condition the body is recommended vitamins of group B, ascorutin;
desensitizing therapy is carried out using prednisolone and cortisone, gamma globulin is shown.

The pseudo-allergic form of the pathology requires the appointment of drugs that enhance the production of the missing C1 inhibitor. The main objective of the measures is to stop or reduce the likelihood of spontaneous activation of proteins that respond to allergic immune responses. hormone therapy carried out under the supervision of a doctor in a hospital.

Diet

With an allergic form of the disease, it is important to reconsider the diet. A patient who once suffered angioedema must adhere to certain rules nutrition. Non-compliance with the recommendations leads to relapses and complications of a different nature.

Persons prone to allergies are prohibited from products that have caused pronounced puffiness. Limit your intake or avoid certain foods altogether.

Immediately after the attack is prohibited:

chocolate;
eggs;
citrus;
products with dyes and preservatives;
processed cheese;
nuts;
whole milk;
fruits, vegetables and berries of red and orange color;
spicy, salty, sour food;
coffee and cocoa;
condensed milk;
canned food.

Allowed:

low-fat dairy products;
oatmeal, buckwheat porridge on the water;
light soups;
cracker;
loaves with bran;
boiled beef;
decoction of wild rose, chamomile;
unsweetened compote;
weak tea.

Important! Introduce new foods into your diet gradually. The permission is given by the doctor. In severe cases, with allergic reactions, the first week the patient is allowed to eat only cereals on the water, dry biscuits and light soup.

Causes and treatment of angioedema in children

The main cause of soft tissue swelling is various types of allergies. In childhood, a non-allergic form of pathology is rare.

Symptoms of the pathology are similar to the manifestations of allergies in adults:

quick reaction of the body to the ingestion of an irritant;
rapid swelling of the face, lips, other parts of the body;
sometimes convex spots occupy a fairly large area;
with swelling of the larynx, the child begins to choke;
with swelling on the face appearance changes beyond recognition, eyes are practically closed due to swollen eyelids.

Puffiness occurs on the face, feet, hands, scrotum. Sometimes other parts of the body are affected.

Cause allergic reactions in children:

medicines (antibiotics, aspirin, B vitamins, preparations containing iodine);
products (chocolate, eggs, citrus fruits, honey, nuts, whole milk, strawberries, raspberries);
house dust;
pollen of some plants;
bites of various insects;
other types of allergens.

In many children, allergic reactions first appear in mild form. If the cause of the rash, redness, other manifestations of allergies is not established and not excluded, the reaction will be more serious. Pathology has another name - giant urticaria.

Allergy symptoms are getting worse. Consequences:

disruptions in the immune system;
bad feeling;
dermatological diseases;
Quincke's edema, as a severe form of reaction to an allergen.

With swelling of the larynx, suffocation may occur. In severe cases, a tracheotomy is required.

If the family has a child suffering from any form of allergy, parents should remember important rules:

There should always be antihistamines in the first aid kit, which can reduce swelling of soft tissues before the ambulance arrives.
It is advisable to have prednisolone for intramuscular injection with rapid swelling of the larynx. Sometimes the ambulance is delayed, and your task is to help the blue, choking child.
Excluding contact with allergens will help eliminate the occurrence of pronounced puffiness.
Diets must be followed throughout life.

Remember! Self-medication is unacceptable! If you encounter symptoms of angioedema, proceed in the same way as in the case of an adult. In addition to antihistamines and water, do not give the child anything until the arrival of the medical team.

Other forms of angioedema in children

Less common are swelling that is not associated with a specific allergen. Required complex therapy. Pathology is more difficult to treat.

non-allergic type

Reason - genetic predisposition to certain types of reactions. Provoking factors:

infectious diseases carried by the child;
common allergens;
low temperatures, sunlight;
poisoning with various substances;
stressful conditions.

Recurrent edema

With frequent manifestations of edema, there are neurological disorders, may develop abdominal syndrome. Edema of the heart and joints, damage to the mucous membrane of the gastrointestinal tract are dangerous.

The child should be regularly observed by an allergist, gastroenterologist, neurologist. A sparing diet, strengthening the immune system and avoiding contact with allergens will help minimize cases of pronounced swelling.

Edema prevention

To prevent the development of swelling of soft tissues will help compliance with certain rules:

exclude contact with products and drugs that cause allergies;
with allergic reactions to certain types medicines, be sure to notify the doctor;
keep antihistamines on hand when taking a new type of antibiotic;
eat right;
with a tendency to allergies, follow a sparing diet;
take vitamin complexes to strengthen immunity.

Explore information about various types swelling of the skin and mucous membranes. When it's bright severe symptoms angioedema, do not panic and call your doctor immediately. Follow preventive measures, be responsible for your well-being and the health of children.

Quincke's edema: what needs to be done before the ambulance arrives: