Mast Cell Activation Syndrome
What is Mast Cell Activation Syndrome?
Mast cells are the first line of defense in our immune system, and reside in most tissues throughout our bodies. When the immune system is functioning normally, mast cells communicate with other cells to identify and resolve a threat, for example a virus or toxin.
Mast cells release chemicals (cytokines) in response to a threat to fight the threat. For some patients who are genetically predisposed, mast cells continue to be hypervigilant after the threat is resolved.
When mast cells become overactive, they continue release inflammatory chemicals. Dr. Gordon draws reference to mast cells being too easily triggered, “like an irritable child” (Long Haul Summit 2023). Mast cell triggers for a patient may include: mold exposure, bacterial infections, and viral particles.
Emerging understanding of MCAS suggests increasing prevalence which may impact 17% of the population.
In the links below, the lifelong work of the following physicians provide ample explanations of MCAS and reputable research on the topic.
Symptoms
MCAS is a multi-system, multi-symptom syndrome. Mast cells line the gastrointestinal tract, the sinuses, the skin, the brain, the sinuses, the bladder and so on.
Symptoms are wide-ranging depending on which area of the body is impacted.
- Fatigue
- Headaches
- Hives/rashes
- Bloating, gas, diarrhea, constipation
- Neurological symptoms
- Bladder symptoms
- Psychiatric symptoms
- Cardiac symptoms
- Respiratory symptoms
Traditional symptoms may include: flushing /itching/allergies, asthma/wheezing and gastrointestinal disturbances. Non-traditional symptoms may include nausea, anxiety, migraines and tachycardia.
Did You Know?
- Many tick borne disease patients experience MCAS.
2. Clinical diagnosis is often made by practicing physicians based on patient presentation. Different criteria is used by allergists for diagnostic evaluation.
3. Mold toxins can trigger MCAS.
MCAS can trigger CCI and aggravate cervical misalignments. CCI can also trigger MCAS.
Treatments
There are no FDA approved treatments for MCAS. However, your doctor may indicate some of the following as part of your treatment plan:
- H1 and H2 Blockers
- Pharmacologics and other Mast cell stabilizers including: Claritin, Allegra, Cromolyn sodium (also a nasal spray), Benadryl, Singulair, Pepsid, Ketotifen and other advanced medications
- Peptides- TA1, Thymosin beta 4 (frag 1-4), BPC-157 all effective at lowering inflammation. Ensure clean sourcing.
- Nutraceuticals and other supplements including:
- Vitamin D, DAO enzyme, Quercetin, Luteolin, Turmeric Curcumin, Resveratrol, Modified Citrus Pectin.
- Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) and Mirica
- Phosphatidyl Choline- see Other Resources section.
- Low-Dose Naltrexone (LDN)-a repurposed medication used as an immune modulator which stimulates the body to secrete natural opioids for a time period and is useful in pain management
- Vagal nerve activation
- Limbic system retraining- Annie Hopper’s DNRS, Gupta training, Dr. Eleanor Stein’s Neuroplasticity training
CONSULT with your doctor who will design appropriate therapies.
MCAS Resources
Dr. Lawrence Afrin
Dr. Afrin, author of Never Bet Against Occam, provides an explanation of MCAS.
Dr. Theoharis Theoharides
Dr. Theo addresses many conditions which link to MCAS, including Fibromyalgia, covid-19, skin conditions, cardiovascular diseases and brain inflammation.
Dr. Tania Dempsey & Dr. Lawrence Afrin
Dr. Dempsey and Dr. Afrin have jointly published many articles related to MCAS. They have joined forces to create a new medical institute focused on the diagnosis, treatment, research and education multi-system diseases including MCAS.
Dr. Bruce Hoffman
Dr. Bruce Hoffman explains MCAS versus histamine intolerance and the related symptoms.
Diagnosis of MCAS and Global Consensus 2
Dr. Marty Ross
Dr. Ross discusses causes of hyperreactivity in patients and how to addressing causes to mitigate can improve options for treatment protocols.
Medical Disclaimer
This website is strictly for informational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice nor medical opinion. This website constitutes the lay opinions of the authors. By use and by reading of the contents herein, the reader waives any and all claims against the author of this website. All persons reading and viewing this website acknowledge the need to secure their own medical advice. The information and effectiveness of the lay opinion of this website does not constitute medical opinion for each reader.
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