MASTOCYTOSIS & MAST CELL DISEASE DAY
October 20 is Mastocytosis and Mast Cell Disease Awareness Day on the National Day Calendar. This International Day sheds a light on a disease where specific immune cells, also called mast cells, build up under the skin, bones, intestines and organs causing abnormal growth. Today, let's show our support for patients who suffer from the disease and the people who care for them.
#MastocytosisMastCellDiseaseDay
Mastocytosis is a condition in which mast cells, a type of white blood cell, build up abnormally in the body. Mast cells are involved in the immune system and play a role in allergic reactions. When mast cells are activated, they release histamine and other chemicals that can cause a variety of symptoms, including itching, hives, flushing, and anaphylaxis. Unfortunately, Mastocytosis and Mast Cell Disease can be the result of a variety of factors, including genetic mutations, autoimmune disorders, and certain medications.
Brief Summary of Mastocytosis and Mast Cell Disease
Mastocytosis and Mast cells protect the body from infection and allergen's. Unfortunately, mast cells can build up in the body and go haywire. When this happens, the cells attack the body's own tissues.
Mastocytosis and mast cell disease are rare conditions in which mast cells build up abnormally in the body. There is no cure for these conditions, but there are treatments that can help to manage the symptoms. Brief Summary of Mastocytosis and Mast Cell Disease
Mastocytosis is a very rare disease affecting only 1 in 10,000 people worldwide. In addition, Mast Cell Disease is even rarer affecting only 1 in 100,000 people. Those who suffer from either disease have varying symptoms which include:
Skin problems, such as itching, hives, flushing, and mast cell tumors.
Gastrointestinal problems, such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, and nausea.
Chronic bone and muscle pain.
Headaches.
Extreme fatigue.
Anaphylaxis.
Anaphylaxis is a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction that can be fatal if not immediately treated. Symptoms can occur within seconds or minutes of exposure to an allergen, such as food, insect venom, or medication. In anaphylaxis, the body's immune system overreacts to the allergen by releasing a flood of chemicals.
Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Difficulty breathing, such as wheezing and tightness of the chest.
Skin reactions, including hives, rashes, and itching.
Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Fainting and dizziness.
5 Treatment for Mastocytosis and Mast Cell Disease
There is no cure for mastocytosis or mast cell disease. However, there are treatments that can help to manage the symptoms. Treatments may include:
Medications to block the effects of histamine and other mast cell mediators.
Medications to suppress mast cell growth and activity.
Allergen avoidance.
Epinephrine auto-injectors for the treatment of anaphylaxis.
Stem cell transplants for people with aggressive mast cell disease.
8 WAYS TO SHOW SUPPORT
Learn about the condition to become better equipped to support someone with Mastocytosis and Mast Cell Disease. loved one.
Be patient and understanding. Mastocytosis and mast cell disease can be a very challenging condition to live with. Be patient and understanding, and offer your support in any way you can.
Help them to identify and avoid their triggers. Triggers are things that can cause mast cells to release histamine and other chemicals. Common triggers include certain foods, medications, and environmental factors.
Encourage them to take their medications as prescribed to help manage the symptoms of Mastocytosis and Mast Cell Disease.
Be there for them in an emergency and learn how to use their auto-injector to help them when an emergency does arise. Mastocytosis and mast cell disease can cause severe allergic reactions, known as anaphylaxis. If your loved one experiences anaphylaxis, they will need to use an epinephrine auto-injector.
Offer to help with practical tasks, such as cooking, cleaning, and running errands.
Encourage them to stay active and engaged in activities that they enjoy.
Help them to connect with other people who have mastocytosis and mast cell disease. Patient support groups can be a great source of support and information.
Everyone is different. What works for one person with mastocytosis and mast cell disease may not work for another. Be sure to communicate with your loved one and find out what they need and appreciate.
CREATOR OF MASTOCYTOSIS & MAST CELL DISEASE DAY
According to the Mastocytosis & Mast Cell Diseases Awareness Day website, the first annual awareness day took place on October 20, 2018. This International Day sheds a light on a disease where specific immune cells, also called mast cells, build up under the skin, bones, intestines and organs causing abnormal growth. The organization encourages everyone from around the world to sharing education and support tools to aid researchers and scientists in finding a cure for Mastocytosis and Mast Cell Diseases.