Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) and Difficulty Sleeping at Night

Written By Lauren Gould

Mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS) can make it difficult to sleep at night for many different reasons:

  • Sudden awakenings

  • Feeling too hot or too cold

  • Joint, bone, or muscle pain

  • Feeling on edge or anxious

  • Abdominal cramps or pain 

  • Itchy skin

  • Tingling or numbness

  • Night sweats

  • Dry cough

  • Throat swelling

  • Bloating or constipation

  • Racing heartbeat

  • Difficulty taking deep breaths

  • Headache or migraine

  • Nasal congestion

  • Difficulty initiating sleep

  • Heart palpitations 

  • Restless leg syndrome

  • Nausea

Histamine levels in the body follow a natural daily rhythm, often peaking in the early morning (overnight) and decreasing throughout the day. For those with MCAS, a rise in histamine overnight can trigger symptoms and significantly disrupt sleep. 

DOI: 10.1038/srep39934; PMID: 31994488; PMID: 32595651; PMID: 30034393; PMID: 35853794; PMID: 30794367; PMID: 32328892; PMID: 38003876

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. 

Lauren Gould
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