Quick Summary
Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) is an immune disorder where mast cells release histamine too often. It mimics allergies and other conditions, making diagnosis difficult. Tracking labs, triggers, and symptoms over time helps uncover patterns - something Aether’s connected health graph enables.
What is MCAS?
Mast cells are immune cells that release histamine and other chemicals to defend the body. In MCAS, these cells misfire too often or too strongly. Read more from NIH – Mast Cell Activation Syndrome and The Mast Cell Disease Society (TMS).
- Itching, hives, or flushing
- Abdominal pain, nausea, or diarrhea
- Fatigue, brain fog, or dizziness
- Wheezing or shortness of breath
- Rapid heart rate or low blood pressure
Why diagnosis is difficult
There is no single test for MCAS. Diagnosis relies on recurrent symptoms and lab evidence of mast cell mediator release, such as elevated serum tryptase or urinary histamine. Learn more from NCBI Bookshelf – Mast Cell Activation Syndrome.
The MCAS–EDS–POTS connection
Many with MCAS also live with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) and Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS). The overlap - sometimes called “the trifecta” - suggests shared pathways between connective tissue, immune response, and the autonomic nervous system.
Why pattern recognition matters
MCAS flares often follow patterns: certain foods, heat, hormones, or stress. Connecting symptoms, diet, and labs over time reveals triggers invisible in isolated visits. Read about practical tracking approaches from PubMed – Pattern Recognition in MCAS.
Tracking what matters
Aether helps standardize tracking for:
- Symptom intensity and timing
- Possible triggers like foods, temperature, and stress
- Lab markers such as tryptase, histamine, DAO levels
- Medication response and side effects
Living with MCAS
There’s no single cure, but treatments can help stabilize mast cell activity. Common approaches include:
- Antihistamines (H1 and H2 blockers)
- Mast-cell stabilizers like cromolyn sodium
- Low-histamine diet and trigger avoidance
- Stress management and gradual activity
Each person’s triggers differ. That’s why structured data — not guesswork — matters.
From scattered notes to connected care
MCAS often hides in plain sight. Aether connects labs, triggers, and outcomes to help you and your doctors identify patterns earlier. Learn more about how this works in our POTS article and our Ehlers-Danlos piece.