What are hereditary and acquired angioedema?
Angioedema Angioedema Angioedema is swelling of your face, lips, tongue, and throat. It is often caused by an allergic reaction. The swelling may get so bad that you can't breathe Angioedema can start suddenly and... read more 
is swelling of your face, lips, tongue, and throat that is usually caused by an allergic reaction Overview of Allergic Reactions The immune system is your body's defense system. It helps protect you from illness and infection. The immune system usually reacts to and attacks bacteria, viruses, and cancer cells. An allergy... read more . But angioedema can also be caused by a certain problem with your immune system Overview of the Immune System The immune system is your body's defense system. It helps protect you from illness and infection. The immune system's job is to attack things that don’t belong in your body, including: Germs... read more .
Hereditary and acquired angioedema are like angioedema caused by an allergic reaction, but they don't itch and you don't get hives (red, itchy, raised patches on the skin).
What causes hereditary or acquired angioedema?
Hereditary angioedema is genetic (a trait inherited from a parent). The condition is present at birth, but symptoms usually start when you’re a child or teenager.
Acquired angioedema can develop after you get certain cancers or autoimmune diseases Autoimmune Diseases "Auto" is a medical term for "self." The immune system is your body's defense system. It helps protect you from illness and infection. The immune system usually attacks invading bacteria, viruses... read more (a disease that causes your body's immune system to attack its own tissues). Symptoms usually start later in life.
