Hereditary angioedema (HAE) usually runs in families, which is why it's called "hereditary." If one parent has HAE, each child will have a 50% risk of inheriting the condition. If a child does not inherit the disease, he or she will not pass it on to future generations.
In a survey, people with HAE had an average of 2 immediate and 2 extended family members who had also been diagnosed with HAE.* This means that as a diagnosed patient, you may have family members who also have HAE.
Encourage your family members to talk to their doctors about getting tested for HAE.
Because HAE is rare, some doctors may not be familiar with the condition. You can help empower your family members to discuss the condition with their doctors and encourage them to get tested. If a family member is interested in finding a doctor who knows about HAE, let them know there are experts who can help diagnose and treat HAE.
*In a global survey of 313 people with HAE.