Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) is a rare condition in which mast cells, immune cells responsible for allergic responses, behave abnormally and cause symptoms such as skin rashes, gastrointestinal upset, and fatigue. Luckily, medication therapy can help manage this condition. In this blog post, we’ll discuss some medications commonly used to treat MCAS, including H1 and H2 blockers, Xolair, Ketotifen, and Cromolyn.
H1 and H2 blockers are medications that block the action of histamine, a chemical that mast cells release during an allergic response. H1 blockers, such as loratadine and cetirizine, can help reduce symptoms like hives and itching, whereas H2 blockers, such as famotidine and ranitidine, can reduce stomach acid production and alleviate gastrointestinal symptoms like reflux and abdominal pain.
Xolair, also known as omalizumab, is an injectable medication that can be effective in reducing the frequency and severity of allergic reactions in individuals with severe allergies. Xolair works by binding to immunoglobulin E (IgE), a protein produced by the immune system that triggers allergic reactions, preventing it from binding to mast cells and triggering a response.
Ketotifen is an oral medication that can help stabilize mast cells and decrease their release of inflammatory chemicals. Ketotifen is known for its ability to improve gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Additionally, it can also alleviate symptoms such as hives, itching, and fatigue.
Cromolyn is another medication that can help stabilize mast cells and prevent the release of inflammatory chemicals. Cromolyn is available in the form of eyedrops (to treat allergic conjunctivitis), nasal spray (to treat allergic rhinitis), and as an inhaler (to treat asthma). Cromolyn therapy requires regular use as it can take weeks to months to see an improvement in symptoms.
In addition to medication therapy, individuals with MCAS may benefit from lifestyle changes such as avoiding triggers, reducing stress, and eating a low histamine diet. Over time, medication therapies may be adjusted to tailor to individuals’ needs. It’s important to work closely with a healthcare provider who has experience treating MCAS to ensure proper management of this condition.
Managing Mast Cell Activation Syndrome with medications can be effective in reducing symptoms like hives, itching, gastrointestinal upset, and fatigue. H1 and H2 blockers, Xolair, Ketotifen, and Cromolyn are common medications used to treat MCAS by stabilizing mast cells and preventing the release of inflammatory chemicals. In conjunction with lifestyle changes, medication therapy can improve the quality of life for individuals with MCAS. It’s important to seek professional medical advice and regularly follow-up with healthcare providers to ensure proper management of this condition.
If you are looking for a safe community to get tips and tricks for living with MCAS consider joining us in our MCAS Community Group
This past week was a real do-sy when it comes to setbacks-
I have chronic migraines but my head does not like the months of Feb-May! It’s like clockwork. My chronic migraines go from annoying to a level of “I want to curse someone out”. That’s pretty fun when you care for lovely folks for a living.
Then to add to the fun I also deal with a condition called mast cell activation syndrome- and my most aggravating symptoms lately has to do with my breathing. This past weekend while at the mall with my kiddos I decided to try a new tea (I usually get nervous trying new things because I never know if I will tolerate it) Well I’ve done pretty well lately since my new medication regimen has kept my symptoms fairly stable- keyword “fairly” within 10 minutes of drinking said tea I felt the all to familiar feeling of my lungs closing. Luckily my regimen keeps me from going into full anaphylaxis but I did have to run and use my inhaler a few times to open up my airways- something I have not had to do in awhile-
But that wasn’t the worst day of the week-
Friday I went to the salon to get my hair done. I walked in with a feeling of dread. I have had a love/hate relationship with my hair for the last several years. My hair has been doing amazing for the last 3 years. It has felt thick and healthy and has been growing really well. About 4 weeks ago I felt the shift. When I started to comb it I noticed more and more hair coming out and the texture changing. I was hoping I was just imagining it but over the next few weeks the hair loss was very obvious.
- So when I went into the salon, I knew I would have to cut a significant amount off-AGAIN!
- It didn’t make the moment any easier
and as tears started to build up- I had to tell myself some things- and I will tell you the same if you are going through some health challenges or setbacks. - You are allowed to feel all the emotions in this moment
- This moment does not define you
- Better days WILL come-
Some things I do is:
- Listen to my favorite music- music is food for the soul
- Read my favorite book-nothing like “escapism” to list my mood and take the mind off current circumstances.
- Stay away from the news and media- I find news can increase anxiety and during times of a setback, you want to keep your focus on the most positive things you can find- so no NEWS!
- Try to connect with your “positive” people- this may not be family and that’s okay. The online support community has come a long ways over the years. Try to find a group that is focused on positivity-If you need one- I will post the link to mine Here
- Use uplifting essential oils- citrus oils like orange, and lemon and bergamot are very uplifting and helpful in times of a setback. My favorites are here
Health challenges and setbacks will come-and then they will go!
Find what works for YOU to keep in a positive mood!
