What Hereditary Angioedema (HAE) Attacks Look Like on 7 Parts of the Body

Hereditary angioedema (HAE) attacks are characterized by severe swelling, known as edema, in different parts of your body. The episodes, which can last from two to five days, may be painful, temporarily disfiguring, and sometimes, life-threatening, as outlined by the US Hereditary Angioedema Association (HAEA).

Symptoms vary and depend on the type of attack you experience. Also, the swelling can start in one location of the body and then spread to another.

Here are some HAE photos that show what an event looks like:

1. HAE Attacks That Affect the Face

Swelling of the face is one of the most obvious signs of an HAE attack, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. If your eyes swell up, it might be hard to see. Inflamed lips could make talking, eating, or drinking difficult. In some cases, your entire face may appear disfigured. Luckily, the swelling is temporary and will subside when the attack is over. But if you have face swelling along with symptoms in your mouth or throat (like coughing, trouble swallowing, or breathing), that can be a sign of a more serious attack — seek help immediately.

RELATED: Living With Hereditary Angioedema

2. HAE Attacks of the Hands

During an HAE attack, your hands might appear much larger than normal, and your fingers might curl in. Swollen hands make it difficult to perform daily tasks, like writing, eating, or holding a phone.

3. An HAE Attack on the Feet

Edema in the feet is another common symptom of an HAE attack. Feet that swell can be painful and interfere with walking and other daily activities.

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4. HAE Attacks That Affect the Genitals

While it might be uncomfortable and embarrassing, swelling of the genitals can happen during an HAE attack. This symptom can affect both men and women, and may interfere with sexual activity and the ability to urinate.

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5. Abdominal Attacks: Often Misdiagnosed as Appendicitis or IBS

Abdominal attacks happen when the intestinal wall swells. They can cause pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. The swelling can be visibly noticeable. Your belly might appear unusually large and bloated. Sometimes, women who experience an abdominal attack look pregnant when they aren’t. Abdominal attacks are often misdiagnosed as other health problems, such as appendicitis or  irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

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6. Laryngeal Attacks: When HAE Makes It Hard to Breathe

Laryngeal attacks are the most dangerous type because they can cause your airway to close up. With a special camera, your doctor can see how the swelling obstructs the throat. Half of people with HAE will experience this type of attack in their lifetime, research has shown, and without treatment, the risk of death from a laryngeal attack can be as high as 30 percent. If you experience edema of the throat, seek emergency medical help right away.

RELATED: What are Breathing Difficulties? Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention

7. HAE Rash: Often the Warning Signal That an Attack Is On the Way

About 25 percent of people with HAE experience a nonitchy, blotchy red rash that happens before or during an attack, per the HAEA. This rash can also appear as red circles, similar to hives.

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