S.20/E.17

On today’s show, we are talking about Mast Cell Activation Syndrome with our guest, Ariana Blockmon.  Ariana is a disabled journeyman wireman electrician out of IBEW local union 124 in Kansas City, who has also been an activist in support of several causes over the years. Ariana is a former 10 year contributor to KKFI 90.1 FM in Kansas City, primarily covering labor union and civil rights history. Ariana is also a person who lives with MCAS and numerous other frequently comorbid conditions.

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The Difficult illness we will discuss today is Mast Cell Activation Syndrome or MCAS.  According to the National Institute of Health: Mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS) causes a person to have repeated severe allergy symptoms affecting several body systems. In MCAS, mast cells mistakenly release too many chemical agents, resulting in symptoms in the skin, gastrointestinal tract, heart, respiratory, and neurologic systems. Mast cells are present throughout most of our bodies and secrete different chemicals during allergic reactions. Symptoms include episodes of abdominal pain, cramping, diarrhea, flushing, itching, wheezing, coughing, lightheadedness and rapid pulse and low blood pressure. Symptoms can start at any age, but usually begin in adulthood. The cause of MCAS is unknown. Diagnosis is based on the symptoms, clinical exam, and specific laboratory testing. Other conditions may need to be excluded before MCAS can be diagnosed.