INTEGRATIVE NUTRITION CLINIC
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Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) is a chronic disorder characterized by the overproduction of mast cells, which leads to a wide range of physical symptoms. It is a condition that is often misdiagnosed or not diagnosed at all, leading to a long and difficult road to diagnosis and treatment. In this blog post, we will discuss the signs and symptoms of MCAS, how to recognize them, how to diagnose MCAS, the available treatments, coping strategies, and support groups and resources for people with MCAS.
Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) is a chronic disorder that is characterized by an overproduction of mast cells. Mast cells are a type of white blood cell that play an important role in the body’s immune system. They are responsible for producing and releasing chemicals that help protect the body from foreign invaders, such as bacteria and viruses. However, when mast cells become overactive, they can produce excessive amounts of these chemicals, leading to a wide range of physical symptoms.
People with MCAS are often misdiagnosed or not diagnosed at all. This is because the signs and symptoms of MCAS can mimic those of other conditions, such as allergies and chronic fatigue syndrome. Additionally, MCAS is a relatively new condition, and not all doctors are familiar with it. As a result, it is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of MCAS and to seek out medical advice if they are present.
The signs and symptoms of MCAS can vary from person to person and can be mild to severe. Common MCAS symptoms include:
These symptoms can be triggered by a variety of factors, such as stress, certain foods, temperature changes, and certain medications. It is important to note that these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions, so it is important to consult a doctor if these symptoms are present.
The key to recognizing the signs and symptoms of MCAS is to be aware of how your body reacts to different triggers. Pay attention to how your body responds to certain foods, medications, environmental triggers, and stressors. If you notice that your symptoms become worse after being exposed to a certain trigger, it may be a sign of MCAS. Additionally, pay attention to how long your symptoms last and if they occur in a pattern. If you notice a pattern of symptoms recurring, it could be a sign of MCAS.
It is also important to talk to your doctor about your symptoms and any other conditions that you may have. Your doctor can help to determine if your symptoms could be caused by MCAS or another condition. Additionally, your doctor can help to rule out other conditions that may be causing your symptoms and refer you to a specialist for further evaluation and testing.
To be considered an MCAS patient, you must fulfill three criteria as outlined in the guidelines: 1) experience symptoms that appear in two or more bodily systems and arise without any other health issues; 2) show heightened levels of mediator markers when blood or urine tests are taken during an episode; and 3) be relieved from symptoms when taking medications that impede the effect of mast cell mediators.
Treating MCAS conventionally centers around counteracting the effects of mast cell mediators. Commonly prescribed medications are anti-histamines, which repress the activity of histamines, mast cell stabilizers, which control mast cells from releasing their mediators, and antileukotrienes, which prevent leukotrienes, another kind of mast cell mediator, from doing their job. These medicines may alleviate the symptoms, but they do not address the source of why the mast cells are overreacting. Thus, once an individual stops taking the medication, the symptoms are likely to come back.
In contrast, the natural approach to MCAS looks to restore the normal functioning of the mast cells. This involves focusing on several aspects, such as diet (e.g. low-histamine or anti-inflammatory diets to reduce the mediator load), using certain nutrients that are natural mast cell stabilisers and stress managment (corticotropin hormone, released when under stress, destabilizes mast cells, hence, a stress-management practice is essential to managing MCAS).
To truly bring mast cells back into equilibrium and alleviate MCAS, one must take action to address the underlying triggers of mast cell activation. Improving gut health, enhancing the immune system, and boosting the body’s detoxification processes are essential aspects of this process. Taking the time and energy to pursue this course of action with the assistance of a Functional Medicine Practitioner is highly recommended.
WE WORK WITH PATIENTS OVER UK ONLINE THROUGH TELEHEALTH
Copyright 2024. Integrative Nutriton Clinic. All Rights Reserved.