MCAD in the case of histamine intolerance
In this blog post, we would like to explain the topic of mast cell activation disorders in more detail. It's a very important topic that affects many people.
This article will explain what mast cell activation disorder ( MCAD ) is, its characteristics, and available testing options. We will also highlight the symptoms and clarify the difference between MCAD and histamine intolerance.
The good news first: You can work with a mast cell activation disorder!
What is a mast cell activation disorder?
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, which in turn resemble those of histamine intolerance.
The most common form of mast cell activation disorder is mastocytosis, also known as mast cell activation syndrome ( MCAS ) . In this condition, histamine is released by the mast cells in unusually high amounts. This can even be triggered by completely harmless factors such as exercise, stress, heat, or cold. Unfortunately, it can also sometimes occur spontaneously, without any apparent cause. The mast cells become more easily activated and therefore 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. This manifests itself in numerous allergies, intolerances, and other allergic-inflammatory conditions.
What symptoms are possible with a mast cell activation disorder?
The symptoms are very diverse. Those affected often suffer from:
- hives
- Hives and itching
- Gastrointestinal problems
- Headaches and dizziness
- flu-like symptoms
- States of exhaustion
- Brain fog
- poor sleep
- Body aches
- Visual disturbances
- Difficulty concentrating
- Memory disorders
- low blood pressure
- short-term high blood pressure
- PMS symptoms
- irritability
- Inner restlessness
The symptoms sound like those of a histamine intolerance?
Exactly, the symptoms of MCAD and histamine intolerance can be identical. In both cases, an excess of histamine is responsible for the symptoms. This is why diagnosis is so difficult.
What is the difference then between this and a histamine intolerance?
Histamine intolerance is generally thought to be caused by an imbalance between the amount of histamine in the body and its capacity to break it down. The causes are varied and can, for example, lie in the metabolic organs or result from nutrient deficiencies.
In MCAD, it is known that a source of histamine or cause of excessively high histamine levels is certainly the mast cells, which release histamine in large quantities – often even without stimuli (e.g., heat, stress, ...) – leading to an excess of histamine in the body.
How does mastocytosis develop? How can MCAS be diagnosed?
Possible causes of mastocytosis include, for example, a genetic predisposition, a random mutation, or an unbalanced diet and unhealthy lifestyle.
Diagnosis is not entirely straightforward, but can be carried out using methods such as a questionnaire, blood tests, urine tests, or skin examinations.
A good indicator is a low-histamine diet: If your symptoms improve within 4 to 12 weeks of following a low-histamine diet, histamine intolerance is more likely than mast cell activation disorder . You can find more information about low-histamine diets here .
A food and symptom diary can be helpful during the so-called elimination diet.
Is there anything I can do about a mast cell activation disorder?
Now for the good news : You can do something about both types of histamine excess!
Because the causes of histamine intolerance can be identified and addressed in most cases, mast cells can be calmed and stabilized, becoming less active. This can even be achieved naturally, leading to greater relief from symptoms and improved well-being! For example, there are so-called mast cell stabilizers that can support your mast cells.