Understanding Mast Cell Disease and How GutWell Medical Treats It
At GutWell Medical, we comprehensively diagnose and treat various health conditions, including mast cell disease and histamine intolerance. Whether you're dealing with unexplained symptoms or have been diagnosed with a condition like mast cell activation syndrome, we work to understand the root cause of your health issues, including how inflammation and mast cells play a role.
What is Mast Cell Disease and Histamine Intolerance?
Mast Cell Disease or MCAS (mast cell activation syndrome) or mast cell enterocolitis - there are different terminologies that are used that all refer to the same problem - too many mast cells releasing histamine in the gut. MCAS and Histamine Intolerance are a group of disorders where mast cells, a type of immune cell, release excessive chemicals like histamine, leading to symptoms such as hives, swelling, and digestive issues. Histamine Intolerance occurs when the body is unable to break down histamine properly, often due to reduced enzyme activity, causing similar symptoms like headaches, flushing, and bloating.
While both conditions involve excess histamine, mast cell disease stems from overactive mast cells, whereas histamine intolerance arises from an inability to metabolize histamine. They can coexist, but mast cell disease involves broader immune dysregulation beyond just histamine.
A Holistic Approach to Diagnosis
When I see a patient, my goal is to thoroughly review all aspects of their health. This means considering multiple potential diagnoses, not just focusing on one. While mast cells are an important part of the body's immune response and can contribute to inflammation, they are just one piece of the puzzle. Many patients believe they’ve already figured out their diagnosis, but it’s important to explore all possibilities to ensure nothing is overlooked. If we limit ourselves to a single diagnosis too quickly, we might miss another underlying cause that could be contributing to the symptoms.
My Experience Treating Mast Cell Disease
As a gastroenterologist, I have treated many patients with conditions like mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS) or mast cell enterocolitis. The most reliable way to diagnose these conditions is through an upper endoscopy, during which we take biopsies from the upper part of the small intestine. This method is considered the "gold standard" for diagnosing mast cell-related diseases because it allows us to directly observe the activity of mast cells in the digestive system. However, mast cells do require special stains, so the doctor performing the procedure will have to ask for the tissue to be stained specifically for the mast cells. Over the years, I’ve managed countless cases, always relying on thorough testing to provide a clear and accurate diagnosis.
Targeting the Root Cause: Healing Through Nutrition
When it comes to treating mast cell disease, I focus on nourishing the small bowel microbiome, which plays a critical role in managing inflammation. By feeding the healthy bacteria in the gut, we can help reduce the number of mast cells and lower inflammation. One way I do this is by recommending specially designed smoothies, which contain three categories of ingredients to promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. If certain ingredients are problematic or cause inflammation, we adjust the recipe to suit the patient’s specific needs. Oftentimes, patients try special diets for the symptoms but need to get to the root cause. The goal is to support the body's natural healing processes by creating an environment where the "good" bacteria can thrive, helping to bring mast cell activity under control.
At GutWell Medical, we believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. By addressing the gut's health and the microbiome's balance, we can help manage conditions like mast cell disease and improve overall well-being. Whether you're just beginning your health journey or have been struggling with chronic symptoms, we’re here to help you find lasting relief. Give us a call at 719-238-6664 or fill out the form below to schedule an appointment.