MCAD in the case of histamine intolerance

In this blog post, we would like to introduce you to the topic of mast cell activation disorders. It is a very important topic that affects many people.

We will cover what a mast cell activation disorder (MCAD) is, what characteristics it can entail, and what the testing options are. We want to draw your attention to the symptoms and also clarify the difference from histamine intolerance.

First, the good news: You can work with your mast cell activation disorder!

What is a mast cell activation disorder?

A mast cell activation disorder is an immunological condition in which mast cells inappropriately and excessively release chemical mediators. This can lead to a range of chronic symptoms that in turn resemble those of histamine intolerance.

The most common form of mast cell activation disorder is mastocytosis or mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS). In this case, histamine is released by the mast cell in unusually high quantities. This can be triggered even by quite harmless influences such as exercise, stress, heat, or cold. But unfortunately, it can sometimes also happen spontaneously, without specific triggers. The mast cells become easier to activate and thus more sensitive. There are two types: cutaneous mastocytosis and systemic mastocytosis.

It is estimated that approximately 17% of the population is affected by mast cell activation syndrome. It is reflected in numerous allergies, intolerances, and other allergic-inflammatory conditions.

Which symptoms are possible with a mast cell activation disorder?

The symptoms are very diverse. Those affected often suffer from:

• Hives
• Wheals and itching
• Gastrointestinal complaints
• Headaches and dizziness
• Flu-like symptoms
• States of exhaustion
• Brain fog
• Poor sleep
• Aching limbs
• Visual disturbances
• Difficulty concentrating
• Memory problems
• Low blood pressure
• Short-term high blood pressure
• PMS symptoms
• Irritability
• Inner restlessness

The symptoms sound like those of a histamine intolerance, don't they?

Exactly, the symptoms of an MCAD and a histamine intolerance can be identical. In both cases, an excess of histamine is responsible for the complaints. For this reason, diagnosis is also difficult.

Then what is the difference from a histamine intolerance?

With histamine intolerance, it is generally assumed that the complaints arise from an imbalance between the histamine present in the body and the capacity to break it down. The causes are diverse and can lie, for example, in the metabolic organs or result from nutrient deficiencies.

With MCAD, it is known that one source of histamine or cause of high histamine levels is definitely the mast cells, which release histamine in large quantities—often even without triggers (e.g., heat, stress, ...)—leading to an excess of histamine in the body.

How can mastocytosis develop? How can one identify MCAS?

Possible causes for mastocytosis include, for example, a genetic predisposition, a random mutation, or an unbalanced diet and unhealthy lifestyle.

Diagnosis is not entirely simple, but it can be carried out with the help of a questionnaire, a blood test, a urine test, or a skin examination, among other things.

A good starting point is a low-histamine diet: If your symptoms improve over the course of 4 to 12 weeks while on a low-histamine diet, a histamine intolerance is more likely than a mast cell activation disorder. You can find guidance on a low-histamine diet here.

For an elimination diet, a food-symptom diary can be helpful.

Can I do something about a mast cell activation disorder?

Now we come to the positive news: You can do something about both types of histamine excess!

Because in most cases you can find and fix the causes of histamine intolerance, the mast cells can be calmed and stabilized. As a result, they are less active. This can even work naturally and lead you to more symptom relief and well-being! For example, there are so-called mast cell stabilizers that can support your mast cells.

Sources

• SIGHI
• Information on mastocytosis