Mast cell activation syndrome
Diagnosis
Mast cell what? Don’t worry, we don’t blame you if you haven’t heard of it! First, let’s talk mast cells. Mast cells are a type of immune cell that originate in the bone marrow and are found in most tissues. They play a role in both health and disease, and are most commonly known for their role in atopic disorders (aka allergies) and anaphylaxis. When they’re functioning normally, mast cells release chemicals that help protect the body—they’re like first responders for your immune system. But when they’re not properly regulated, mast cells have been linked to several chronic allergic/inflammatory disorders, autoimmune diseases, and cancers. If you have mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS), your mast cells overreact and release chemicals when they shouldn’t. Often, they treat food, fragrances, temperature, and even stress as something to “defend against.” Depending on which chemical the mast cells release, you can experience a whole range of symptoms, including hives, diarrhea, shortness of breath, fatigue, brain fog, congestion, lightheadedness, and much more. MCAS may even cause anaphylaxis, a medical emergency. And it may pop up in people who have Ehlers Danlos Syndrome (EDS), which is a connective tissue disorder, or Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS). MCAS is difficult to diagnose and treatment response varies. If you have MCAS, try to avoid substances and environments that may provoke your symptoms. If a severe anaphylactic reaction occurs, call 911 right away—you’ll need to be treated emergently with epinephrine. Antihistamines, H2 blockers, mast cell stabilizers, and steroids are also used to help treat the symptoms. Your mast cells are just trying to do their job and keep you safe, but as is often the case, the immune system can take it too far!
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