Are there everyday situations that can trigger swelling attacks?
In many cases, angioedema attacks occur spontaneously. Still, research has identified a number of factors that may be implicated in the development of an angioedema attack. These include surgical procedures, dental treatments, emotional stress and, in women, changes in oestrogen levels (e.g., during the menstrual cycle). Other potential triggers include physical exercise, prolonged sitting or standing, excessive heat or cold, contact with certain chemicals, infectious disorders (including colds), certain foods, sudden changes in meteorological conditions and medications that contain oestrogen (oral contraceptives, hormone replacement therapy). In most cases, however, attacks begin without any identifiable trigger, thus impacting patients without prior warning.
