A condition called angioedema occurs when capillaries dilate and leak fluid deeper into the skin, into the dermis and subcutaneous tissue. Angioedema typically causes swelling of the lips, larynx (producing hoarseness or shortness of breath), or the lining of the stomach and intestines (causing abdominal pain). Many times angioedema occurs with an episode of hives.

Pronunciation: AN-gee-oh-ah-DEE-muh • (noun)

Also Known As: Urticaria, wheals, hives, whelts

Related Resources:

• All About Hives
A great place to start to learn more about hives.
• Cholinergic Urticaria
This common form of hives occurs after exercise or raising the temperature of the body.
• Dermographism
Dermographism, also called skin writing, is a common form of hives.
• Cold Urticaria
Cold urticaria is a form of hives caused by exposure to cold water.
• Pressure Urticaria
Pressure urticaria is a form of hives caused by pressure against the skin.
• Solar Urticaria
Solar urticaria is a form of hives caused by exposure to certain wavelengths of light.
• Water Urticaria
Water urticaria is a form of hives caused by exposure of the skin to water.
• Exercise Induced Anaphylaxis
Exercise induced anaphylaxis is a form of hives that can cause shock or death after exercising.
• Vibratory Angioedema
Vibratory angioedema is a form of hives caused by applying a vibratory stimulus to the skin.
• Heat Urticaria
Heat urticaria is a form of hives caused by exposure of the skin to a warm stimulus.