Vibratory Angioedema

Vibratory Angioedema is a rare form of chronic hives that occur in a few people. It is a type of physical urticaria, where the hives are caused by an external stimulus on the body. In the case of Vibratory Angioedema, the stimulus is a physically powerful vibration. Unlike hives, angioedema are larger in size and run deeper in the skin tissues. Angioedema are very painful as well. Angioedema is an extreme condition than hives. In some cases, it can cause swelling near the eyes and mouth. Sometimes swelling can occur in the throat as well, which could be life threatening because it can block the passage of air to the lungs.

Stimuli that can cause Vibratory Angioedema are as follows:

• Using tools such as an automatic driller, pneumatic hammer or a lawn mower.
• Using vibratory exercise machines in the gym.
• Riding a motorbike.
• Exercises such as jogging and running.
• Rubbing your body vigorously with a towel.

Symptoms of Vibratory Angioedema

Some of the symptoms of Vibratory Angioedema are as follows:

• Swelling of the hands, face, throat, tongue, cheek, areas around the eyes and mouth and feet.
• Swelling is red and crammed.
• Angiodema are painful and usually the areas around the swelling are painful.
• Angiodema can be accompanied with burning sensation.
• In some cases, there may be itchiness.
• Shortness of breath, if swelling occurs in throat as it blocks the airway passage.
• Rapid onset when in contact with vibration.

Most symptoms occur within 2 to 5 minutes after exposure to a vibratory stimulus. Symptoms usually resolve within 30 to 60 minutes. Usually they last till the cessation of exposure to a vibratory stimulus.

Treatment of Vibratory Angioedema

The best way to treat vibratory angioedema, is to prevent it from occurring. To prevent the occurrence of vibratory angioedema, one will have to avoid exposure to any vibratory stimulus.

In case of an outbreak of Angioedema, then the ways to treat them are as follows:

• If the person has mild Vibratory Angioedema, you will need to sit out as the symptoms will resolve within 30 minutes or a day. To get relief from the symptoms, one can use a cool compress - this will help to get relief from itching and the burning sensation. You can use some topical creams to reduce the swelling. You can also use an anti-itch lotion for the itching. Ensure that you avoid any strenuous activities which may trigger the symptoms. Wear loose-fitted clothes in order not to aggravate the condition.
• Antihistamines such as hydroxyzine, desloratadine, certirizine are prescribed in moderate cases of Vibratory Angioedema. In more severe cases, you may be give corticosteroids by your doctor. If your airway passage is blocked due to swelling, then seek medical attention immediately. In some cases an epinephrine injection may be give to stop inflammation of the skin.

If you are suffering from Vibratory Angioedema, then you must take some precautions. It is necessary to avoid any trigger which can cause the onset of Vibratory Angioedema. Early care and treatment will help a person suffering from Vibratory Angioedema to recover faster.