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Hereditary Angioedema (HAE)

Background

HAE is a rare and serious problem with your immune system that’s usually passed down from parents to children. It causes severe swelling, most commonly in your arms and legs, face, stomach and airways. About 1 in 3 people with HAE may develop a non-itchy rash during an attack. Symptoms usually start when you’re a child, get worse around puberty, and continue throughout your life.

Causes

HAE is caused by low levels of a protein called C1 inhibitor or when your C1 inhibitor doesn’t work. When your C1 inhibitor is low or doesn’t work, fluids leak into your body tissue and cause swelling. Minor trauma (such as dental procedures or surgery), illness, or stress may trigger an attack. But swelling can also happen without a trigger.

Treatment

There is no cure for HAE, and symptoms aren’t the same for every person. Your doctor can help you create a personalized treatment plan that best helps you lead a healthy life. Medications are available to help prevent and/or treat HAE attacks. Your doctor may prescribe either intravenous (infused into the vein) medications, or subcutaneous (injected under the skin) medications to help treat this condition.

Resources

Let an Optum® Specialty Pharmacy expert help you with your specialty medication needs. Call our dedicated HAE team at 1-877-231-9008.

 

 

Helping you stay on track

The Optum® Adherence Texting program reminds you to take your medication on time and helps you have a role in managing your health. The program sends text messages with:

  • Medication reminders
  • Feedback on adherence
  • Inspirational quotes