Red Flags & When to Go In Person for Angioedema (Mild) - Pediatric Triage

Audience: pediatric

Angioedema is swelling beneath the skin, often around the eyes, lips, or face. In children, mild angioedema usually causes swelling without serious symptoms. It can happen due to allergies, infections, or other triggers. Most mild cases improve with rest and avoiding the cause. However, some signs mean the child needs to see a healthcare provider in person quickly. These include trouble breathing, swelling of the tongue or throat, or sudden worsening of symptoms. Telemedicine can help assess mild angioedema and guide care, but it cannot replace emergency care when severe symptoms appear. Parents should watch for red flags and be ready to seek urgent care if needed. This guide helps families understand when to use telemedicine and when to get in-person help for children with mild angioedema.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Difficulty breathing, wheezing, or noisy breathing — go to emergency care immediately.
• Swelling of the tongue, throat, or mouth causing trouble swallowing or speaking — seek urgent in-person care.
• Sudden severe swelling that worsens quickly or signs of shock (pale skin, weakness, fainting) — call emergency services right away.

What telemedicine can do

• Assessment of mild swelling and symptoms via video or phone.
• Review of medical history and recent exposures.
• Guidance on home care and medication use for mild angioedema.
• Advice on when to seek in-person or emergency care.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Emergency airway problems or severe breathing difficulty.
• Severe swelling of tongue, throat, or mouth needing immediate treatment.
• Signs of shock or loss of consciousness.
• Physical examination requiring urgent intervention.

What Is Mild Angioedema in Children?

Mild angioedema is swelling under the skin that usually affects the face, lips, or around the eyes. It often comes on quickly and may be caused by allergies to foods, insect bites, medicines, or infections. The swelling can be uncomfortable but typically does not cause pain or breathing problems in mild cases. It's important to watch your child closely to make sure symptoms do not get worse.

Common Causes and Triggers

In children, mild angioedema can be triggered by:

Identifying and avoiding triggers helps prevent future episodes.

When to Use Telemedicine for Mild Angioedema

Telemedicine can be useful to:

A video call may help the provider see the swelling and assess severity.

Red Flags That Need In-Person Care Immediately

Seek emergency care if your child has:

These signs may mean a serious allergic reaction requiring urgent treatment.

How to Prepare for a Telemedicine Visit

Before the visit:

This helps the healthcare provider give the best advice.

After the Telemedicine Visit: What to Do Next

Follow the provider’s advice carefully. This may include:

Keep emergency numbers handy just in case.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Note the time when swelling started and any possible triggers.
• List all current medicines and allergies.
• Prepare to show the affected area clearly on camera.
• Write down symptoms, including any breathing or swallowing difficulties.
• Have emergency contact numbers ready.
• Ensure a quiet place with good internet connection for the tele-visit.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider’s instructions on medication and care.
• Avoid known allergens or triggers identified during the visit.
• Monitor the child closely for any worsening symptoms.
• Schedule a follow-up visit if recommended.
• Seek emergency care immediately if red flags appear after the visit.

FAQs

Can mild angioedema go away on its own?

Yes, mild angioedema often improves without treatment within a few days, especially if the trigger is avoided. However, it’s important to monitor your child closely for any signs of worsening.

What medicines can help mild angioedema?

Antihistamines are commonly used to reduce swelling and itching in mild angioedema. Your healthcare provider can advise if these are appropriate for your child.

When should I take my child to the emergency room?

Go to the emergency room immediately if your child has difficulty breathing, swelling of the tongue or throat, trouble swallowing, or shows signs of shock like fainting or extreme weakness.

Can telemedicine replace all in-person visits for angioedema?

Telemedicine is helpful for mild cases and follow-up but cannot replace emergency care or physical exams needed for severe symptoms.

How can I prevent angioedema in my child?

Avoid known triggers such as certain foods, insect stings, or medications. Work with your healthcare provider to identify and manage allergies.

Sources

1. Angioedema — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Angioedema: Overview and Management — Mayo Clinic.
3. Allergic Reactions and Anaphylaxis — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Angioedema in Children: Diagnosis and Treatment — American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If your child has severe symptoms or you are concerned about their health, seek emergency care immediately.