Identifying MCAS Symptom Triggers

With MCAS (mast cell activation syndrome), recognizing symptom triggers is essential. This involves figuring out what might be your non-negotiable triggers (those that cause such a significant impact that they are necessary to fully avoid), how other triggers may impact you, and to support your body for symptom management. 

Symptom triggers I often see in MCAS: 

Heat & Temperature Swings—summer, hot showers, walking into heat after being in air conditioning 

Strong smells—cleaning products like bleach, scented candles, laundry detergent, or deodorant, perfumes, air fresheners, fragrance

Sunlight—being in direct sunlight for too long 

Pressure—wearing uncomfortable or scratchy clothing

Medications or medical exposures—some medications themselves, additives or coatings, contrast dye used in imaging, adhesives

Mold & damp environments—mold spores that are often hidden, or musty spaces

Food and food additives—preservatives like benzoate, sulfites, or MSG (monosodium glutamate), high histamine foods, leftovers

Alcohol—especially wine because of high histamine content, fermentation, and sulfites

Chemicals—smoke, off-gassing from new carpets, furniture, or paint

Identifying symptom triggers can be tricky, since they are not always obvious and are different for everyone. It is also important to know that avoidance of “everything” can make things worse. 

Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and shall not be construed as behavioral health or medical advice. It is not intended or implied to supplement or replace treatment, advice, and/or diagnosis from your own qualified healthcare provider.