Stabilizing the System: A Root-Cause Approach to MCAS
Effectively managing Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) requires a clinician with deep expertise in the complexities of the immune system. At SouthPark Functional Medicine, Dr. Mahtani investigates the underlying factors that trigger mast cell activation, creating a strategic path toward stabilizing the immune response and reducing systemic reactivity.
What Is MCAS?
Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) is a condition in which mast cells release too high an amount of chemical mediators in response to triggers that are mistakenly perceived as threats, such as certain foods or changes in weather.
Mast cells are immune cells that promote healing and help the body fight infection. Their primary function is to release histamines, leukotrienes, prostaglandins, and other mediators that help regulate the body’s inflammatory responses.
In MCAS, the overwhelming amount of mediators released can trigger a wide range of symptoms, including hives, itching, shortness of breath, and anaphylaxis, in severe cases. At SouthPark Functional Medicine, our doctor for MCAS can identify the driving factors behind your symptoms and work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that helps restore balance and comfort.
Dr. Mahtani’s approach to MCAS involves a detailed investigation into identifying and removing triggers, supporting mast cell stability, and addressing downstream inflammation and related conditions. Her goal is to create a personalized roadmap to help you feel safe in your own body again.
If you are ready to regain control of your health, we invite you to take the next step.
What Are The Symptoms Of MCAS?
MCAS typically produces repeated episodes, or flares, that encompass a wide range of symptoms in two or more body systems. MCAS symptoms typically vary from person to person.
Itching & Hives
Itching skin and hives are common with MCAS on behalf of excess histamine release. Flushing and swelling of the face, lips, eyes, and throat may also occur.
Nasal Congestion
A runny or stuffy nose may occur with MCAS due to the release of extra mediators. Nasal congestion may also be accompanied by watery eyes.
Shortness of Breath
The chemical mediators released by mast cells in MCAS may cause narrowing and inflammation of the airway, and shortness of breath.
Constipation & Diarrhea
MCAS may worsen existing gut health issues and produce inflammatory reactions that contribute to constipation and diarrhea.
Joint & Muscle Pain
Inflammation caused or exacerbated by MCAS may lead to pain and weakness in joints and muscles, similar to that which may be felt in arthritis.
Nausea & Vomiting
Nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain may be triggered by the release of excess histamines that occurs in MCAS.
Heart-Related Issues
The inflammatory mediators released in MCAS can affect heart health and functioning to cause a wide range of heart-related symptoms. Rapid heart rate and palpitations are commonly related to MCAS.
Headache
Prostaglandins, cytokines, and histamines are mediators commonly released by mast cells in MCAS. These mediators may dilate blood vessels in the brain and trigger inflammation to cause headaches and migraines.
Brain Fog
Increased inflammation and mediator activity in the brain with MCAS may lead to difficulty thinking, memory loss, and brain fog.
MCAS Explained
Contributing Factors
Mast Cell Activation Syndrome is a condition in which mast cells (immune cells) mistakenly perceive certain substances or situations as threats to the body, and release an increased amount of chemical mediators in response—including histamines and cytokines—to address the threat. MCAS may develop due to:
Allergen Exposure
Exposure to common or “typical” allergens may trigger MCAS symptoms. Pet dander, pollen, dust mites, and fragrances are examples of common allergens that may contribute to this condition.
Stress
Any type of stress can contribute to Mast Cell Activation Syndrome , including physical stress, emotional stress, and environmental stress. As one of the most common MCAS triggers, stress increases the body’s production of stress hormones including cortisol that are implicated in mast cell activation and inflammatory responses.
Diet And Nutrition
Certain foods contain high amounts of histamines or support histamine release. Tomatoes and fermented foods are high in histamines, while alcohol and citrus fruits may trigger their release. A mast cell syndrome diet guided by a doctor for MCAS can help manage symptoms linked to food sensitivities.
Benefits Of MCAS Therapy
MCAS treatment can improve your general wellness and quality of life, especially if it causes a variety of symptoms that interfere with your comfort and daily activities. Benefits of MCAS therapy from a functional medicine doctor include:
Reduction In Flares
Getting Mast Cell Activation Syndrome under control can result in fewer flares, as well as a reduction in the severity of symptoms during flares
A Healthier Gut
The gut microbiome interacts with nearly every other system in the body to regulate your overall health. Poor gut health has been linked to autoimmune diseases, irritable bowel syndrome, anxiety, and depression. MCAS therapy can help you achieve a healthier gut, which reduces your risk for gastrointestinal problems and other related problems.
Lower Risk For Anaphylaxis
Anaphylaxis is a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction. In Mast Cell Activation Syndrome , the risk for anaphylaxis ranges between 22% and 49%, but treatment can help mitigate this risk.
Improved Memory And Concentration
MCAS can affect your memory, thinking, and concentration due to the way it can trigger inflammation and offset the balance of other brain chemicals and hormones. Treatment can help improve your memory and lessen brain fog.
Fewer Comorbidities
Having Mast Cell Activation Syndrome increases your risk for comorbid conditions. Type 2 diabetes, Ehlers Danlos Syndrome (EDS,) and postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) are examples of comorbid conditions that tend to be more common in those with MCAS.
Improved Daily Functioning
Symptoms of MCAS can often have a negative impact on your daily functioning and activities. For instance, shortness of breath can make it difficult to exercise and stay active, while vomiting may keep you bedridden for part of the day. Treatment for this condition can help you take control of your health, enhance your functioning, and get you back to your favorite activities.
Why Choose SouthPark Functional Medicine?
Because a complex condition like Mast Cell Activation Syndrome requires a sophisticated expert. Dr. Sarita Mahtani’s unique dual expertise as a board-certified MD and an IFM Certified Practitioner allows her to move beyond symptom management. She utilizes a precise, evidence-based methodology to identify the complex root causes of the underlying triggers that lead to inappropriate mast cell activation and creates a personalized plan for lasting results.
Choose expertise. Choose a true partner. Choose a new standard of care.
Dr. Sarita Mahtani is committed to caring for and healing patients through customized treatments.
Take the initial step towards your optimal well-being through integrative medicine in Charlotte, North Carolina.
Mast Cell Activation Syndrome is extremely common, with an estimated prevalence of 17%. If you frequently experience one or more symptoms of MCAS but haven’t received a definitive diagnosis, seeing a functional medicine doctor may be the best step you can take toward feeling better.
To find a functional medicine provider, use search terms such as “Mast Cell Activation Syndrome doctors near me” or contact Dr. Mahtani at SouthPark Functional Medicine if you live in North Carolina.
Contact us today at 980-414-4600
MCAS – Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Best Antihistamine For Mast Cell Activation Syndrome?
Antihistamines are a common treatment for many symptoms of Mast Cell Activation Syndrome . Diphenhydramine and hydroxyzine are typically prescribed to relieve itching, abdominal pain, and flushing. Famotidine may help reduce abdominal pain and nausea, while montelukast and zafirlukast may reduce wheezing.
Your provider can recommend the best antihistamine for you based on your MCAS symptoms.
What Are The Mast Cell Activation Syndrome Neurological Symptoms?
In Mast Cell Activation Syndrome , inflammatory mediators can cross the blood-brain barrier to affect glial cells and neurons in the brain. This action may trigger a wide range of neurological symptoms.
- Neurological symptoms may include:
- Headache
- Fainting spells
- Back pain
- Dizziness
- Numbness & tingling sensations
- Seizure
- Depression
- Anxiety and panic attacks
- Sleep disturbances
How To Test For Mast Cell Activation Disorder?
Mast Cell Activation Disorder may be diagnosed using blood or urine tests that check your tryptase levels, histamine metabolites, and prostaglandin D2. These testing methods are usually most effective during or immediately following an MCAS flare or episode.
MCAS doctors may focus on ruling out other conditions before giving an official MCAS diagnosis, given how its symptoms are the same as those of many other conditions.
Is Mast Cell Activation An Autoimmune Disorder?
No, Mast Cell Activation Syndrome is not an autoimmune disorder. In autoimmune disorders, the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues. In MCAS, mast cells mistakenly release too-high amounts of mediators, causing inflammation and allergic reactions to spike.
MCAS may be considered an immune disease or immunological disorder.
Does MCAS Ever Go Away?
A functional medicine doctor can work with you to identify and treat the root causes of MCAS, which may lead to reduced or stopped episodes. If the root cause is not identified, then it is a chronic condition, but symptoms can often be managed with treatment.
What Are Three Common Symptoms Of Mast Cell Activation?
Rapid heart rate . Also known as tachycardia, rapid heart rate in MCAS is typically caused by an increase in mediators including histamines and leukotrienes. Palpitations may also occur.
Itching skin . Histamine stimulates nerve endings to cause the sensation of itching. During severe episodes, itching may be accompanied by hives.
Shortness of breath . The excess mediators released in MCAS can irritate, inflame, and narrow the airways to cause shortness of breath. Other lung- and breathing-related symptoms include wheezing and swelling of the throat.
What Is The Root Cause Of MCAS?
The exact cause of Mast Cell Activation Syndrome is unknown, however, researchers suggest it may be caused by genetics, infections, gut dysbiosis, toxin exposure, and/or hormonal imbalances.
Root causes of MCAS may be referred to as “triggers,” in which case identifying known triggers may help pave the way toward effective treatment and management. A functional medicine doctor can help you identify and avoid your personal MCAS triggers.