hfollett

I have Mast Cell Activation Disorder (MCAD). Even though my trypase levels came back OK (which is one way to diagnose), my doctor agreed to treat me empirically to see if my symptom went away. And thank goodness - they did.

MCAD is basically that your mast cell release or degranulation is easily triggered. In my case, I was able to begin linking some of the triggers to the symptoms of facial flushing, burning, and basically my whole body "tanking".

Here is a link to a good page that describes mastocytosis, MCAD, and some of the triggers. http://tmsforacure.org/patientinfo.shtml

If you have an episode of facial flushing, try to figure out what has happened prior. For me, triggers are heat, certain foods, stress, and over exercising.

The treatments are really, really benign, which is why my doc agreed to try to treat it empirically. They usually prescribe an antihistamine (Zyrtec), a H2 blocker (Zantac), and some type of mast cell stabilizer (Gastrocrom). Zantac is available OTC ... you could try an OTC antihistamine (Claritin) and see if you begin to get some relief.

Try to log what you've been eating too and see if you can find a pattern between your diet and reactions.

Good luck!

If you histamine levels are elevated, you might ask your doctor about some type of mast cell disorder (mastocytosis or mast cell activation disorder). I can cause what you're experiencing.

Does your insurance cover Provigil? Mine won't, and I'm struggling with whether to pay for it outight or not. It really does help. If you are paying out of pocket for it, where is the least expensive place to purchase it?

Thanks for the input,

Helen