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Laryngeal
oedema
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Angioedema
is a spontaneous swelling up of areas of skin
or mucous membranes. It is caused by a
build up of fluid leaking from thin-walled
blood vessels. When angioedema
affects the throat the condition is known as laryngeal
oedema and the
possible causes are the same.
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Varying degrees of laryngeal oedema may accompany angioedema in about one case
in five. In other cases, laryngeal oedema may occur alone. Whatever the cause, sudden internal throat
swelling, particularly in someone known to suffer the condition, is a medical
emergency similar to anaphylaxis and urgent medical attention (dial 999) should be obtained.
If this has happened previously, an adrenaline injection for emergency use (e.g.
EpiPenŽ)
may have been provided. If so this
is the time to use it.

Recommended
Website Anaphylaxis Campaign
A valuable organisation that deals with the concerns and needs of all who suffer from
anaphylaxis or laryngeal oedema. They produce a useful regular newsletter.
www.anaphylaxis.org.uk

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