Angioedema and Allergic Swelling Evaluation in Germantown, TN

Sudden swelling under the skin can be alarming and uncomfortable. When it happens around your face, lips, throat, or hands, it needs to be taken seriously. At Allergy & Asthma Specialists in Germantown, TN, we help patients understand what is causing their swelling and how to stay safe. Call us today at (901) 202-4100 to schedule your evaluation.

What Is Angioedema?

Angioedema is a rapid swelling that occurs beneath the surface of the skin. Unlike hives, which affect the outer skin layer, angioedema involves deeper layers of tissue. It often appears around the eyes, lips, throat, hands, feet, and genitals. Swelling can develop quickly and may last anywhere from a few hours to a few days. In some cases it can be life-threatening, especially when it affects the throat or airway.

Types of Angioedema

There are several types of angioedema. Each has a different cause and requires a different approach:

  • Allergic Angioedema—triggered by allergens such as food, medications, or insect stings. Often occurs alongside hives.
  • Non-allergic angioedema—linked to medications like ACE inhibitors used for blood pressure.
  • Hereditary Angioedema—a rare genetic condition caused by a deficiency in a specific blood protein.
  • Idiopathic Angioedema—no identifiable cause is found despite thorough evaluation.


Identifying the type you have is essential for choosing the right treatment.

Common Angioedema Triggers

Angioedema can be set off by a variety of triggers. The most common include:

  • Foods such as peanuts, tree nuts, shellfish, or eggs
  • Medications including antibiotics or anti-inflammatory drugs
  • Insect stings or bites
  • Latex exposure
  • Infections or illness
  • Emotional stress or physical exertion in hereditary cases


Tracking when and where your swelling occurs helps our team narrow down the cause.

Symptoms of Angioedema to Watch For

Angioedema symptoms can vary in severity. Common signs include:

  • Swelling under the skin around the eyes, lips, or face
  • Swelling of the hands, feet, or genitals
  • A warm or painful sensation in the swollen area
  • Stomach cramping or pain when swelling affects the gut
  • Difficulty breathing or swallowing if the throat is involved


Throat swelling is a medical emergency. Call 911 immediately if this occurs.

How We Evaluate and Treat Angioedema

At Allergy & Asthma Specialists, we take a careful and thorough approach to evaluating angioedema. We review your full health history and look at any patterns in your swelling episodes. Testing may include allergy evaluations and blood work. Your treatment plan may include:

  • Identifying and avoiding your specific triggers
  • Antihistamines or corticosteroids to reduce swelling
  • Epinephrine auto-injector prescription for emergency use
  • Specific treatments for hereditary angioedema when needed
  • A written emergency action plan for severe episodes
  • Regular follow-up visits to monitor your condition


Our team makes sure you understand your condition and feel prepared for any situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Is Angioedema the Same as Hives?

    They are related but not the same. Hives affect the surface of the skin, while angioedema involves swelling in deeper tissue layers. They often occur together but can also happen separately.

  • Can Angioedema Be Life-Threatening?

    Yes. When swelling affects the throat or airway, it can block breathing and become a medical emergency. Having an emergency action plan in place is critical for anyone with a history of angioedema.

  • How Is Hereditary Angioedema Different?

    Hereditary angioedema is caused by a genetic deficiency rather than an allergic reaction. It does not respond to standard allergy treatments and requires specific medications. Our team can evaluate and manage this condition.

  • Can Angioedema Go Away on Its Own?

    Mild episodes may resolve without treatment. However, recurring or severe swelling should always be evaluated by a specialist to prevent a more serious reaction down the road.

  • How Do I Get Started?

    Call allergy & asthma specialists at (901) 202-4100 or visit our office in Germantown, TN, to book your evaluation.

Do Not Ignore Unexplained Swelling

Recurring swelling under the skin is not something to push aside. The team at Allergy & Asthma Specialists in Germantown, TN, is ready to help you find answers and put a safety plan in place. We serve patients across the greater Memphis area. Call us today at (901) 202-4100 or stop by our office. Your health and safety are too important to wait.