Whilst effective treatments are now available for emergencies, the condition can still be stressful for patients because attacks are unpredictable and medical help may be required at very short notice. Because severe attacks of both bradykinin and histamine-induced angioedema involving the throat require injections, patients need to be shown how to self-administer treatment and gain confidence in how to manage an emergency effectively. Less severe attacks settle naturally over days but still cause discomfort and embarrassment if they are on the face and may be a reason for taking days off work or school.