Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) is a complex immune condition where mast cells release excessive amounts of chemical mediators. The most common example is histamine, which is closely connected to allergy symptoms. These mast cells play a critical role in immune defense and inflammation, but when they become dysregulated, they can trigger widespread symptoms affecting multiple systems in the body.
Many people in the Dallas–Fort Worth area struggle with MCAS symptoms like brain fog, gut issues, fatigue, anxiety, headaches, hives, and cardiovascular complaints. Because symptoms vary widely and overlap with many other conditions, MCAS is frequently overlooked or misunderstood.
But Dr. Morcom provides hope. Let’s address the root cause of your MCAS.
Top Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) Doctor in Dallas/Ft. Worth
What Is Mast Cell Activation Syndrome?
In MCAS, mast cells become hypersensitive and overreact to stimuli that would not normally cause a problem. Instead of responding appropriately, they release excessive mediators that lead to inflammation across multiple organ systems.
Common symptoms may include:
- Skin reactions such as flushing, hives, itching, or swelling
- Gastrointestinal issues like bloating, diarrhea, nausea, or abdominal pain
- Neurological symptoms including brain fog, headaches, dizziness, or anxiety
- Fatigue and exercise intolerance
- Cardiovascular symptoms such as palpitations or lightheadedness
- Respiratory symptoms like shortness of breath or nasal congestion
Because histamine affects nearly every tissue in the body, MCAS can look very different from person to person.
Histamine Is a Signal, Not the Enemy
When histamine levels are persistently high, it means the immune system is responding to ongoing stressors. Simply suppressing histamine without addressing the root cause often leads to incomplete relief or symptom recurrence.
Common root contributors to MCAS include:
- Mold exposure and mycotoxins
- Heavy metals such as mercury, lead, or aluminum
- Chronic infections including Lyme disease
- Bacterial, fungal, or parasitic overgrowth in the gut
- Leaky gut and intestinal inflammation
- Chemical and environmental toxin exposure
The goal of functional medicine is to identify why mast cells are overreacting and address those drivers systematically.
Chronic Pain and Inflammation
Poor mitochondrial function increases oxidative stress, meaning free radicals accumulate faster than the body can neutralize them. This drives inflammation across tissues.
In the nervous system, inflammation can cause nerve hypersensitivity and exaggerated pain signaling even when imaging shows no structural injury. In muscles and connective tissue, mitochondrial dysfunction often appears as soreness, stiffness, or fibromyalgia-type pain.
Thyroid Cancer
Thyroid cancer is the growth of malignant cells in the thyroid gland. Symptoms may include a lump in the neck, changes in voice, and difficulty swallowing. The cause multifactorial and due to the oxidative stress from numerous sources, but genetic factors and exposure to radiation can also increase risk.
Common Strategies for Managing MCAS Symptoms
While addressing root causes is essential, symptom support plays an important role in calming the immune system and improving quality of life during the healing process.
Avoiding Triggers
- Histamine-rich or high-tyramine foods
- Mold, pollen, or environmental allergens
- Chemical exposures such as fragrances or cleaners
- Stress and emotional overload
- Temperature extremes
Reducing exposure helps decrease the overall histamine burden on the body.
Dietary Modifications
Common dietary strategies include:
- Avoiding aged, fermented, or processed foods
- Limiting artificial additives and preservatives
- Reducing alcohol and leftover foods
Food sensitivity testing may be useful to identify foods that provoke immune activation beyond histamine alone. Temporarily removing these foods allows the immune system to calm while deeper issues are addressed.
Targeted Supplements
Commonly considered options include:
- Quercetin
- Diamine oxidase (DAO) enzymes
- Vitamin C
- Specific flavonoids
Because responses vary, supplement protocols should always be personalized and guided by a practitioner experienced in MCAS.
Genetic Considerations
A functional genomic analysis can help identify:
- Reduced DAO activity
- Methylation challenges
- Detoxification pathway weaknesses
Understanding genetic predispositions allows for more precise and effective treatment strategies.
Stress Regulation
Helpful approaches may include:
- Mindfulness or meditation practices
- Gentle yoga or breathwork
- Nervous system regulation strategies
Calming the nervous system is often essential for calming the immune system.
Professional Guidance and Testing
- Appropriate testing
- Identification of root causes
- Step-by-step treatment planning
This avoids the common cycle of trial-and-error symptom suppression.
A Functional Medicine Path to Healing MCAS
Functional medicine focuses on:
- Identifying immune stressors
- Strengthening detoxification pathways
- Restoring gut integrity
- Supporting nervous system regulation
- Gradually addressing infections and toxic load
When the root causes are addressed, mast cells often become less reactive, histamine levels stabilize, and symptoms improve naturally.
For individuals in Dallas–Fort Worth struggling with unexplained allergic reactions, gut issues, fatigue, or multisystem symptoms, Mast Cell Activation Syndrome may be an important piece of the puzzle.
A functional medicine approach offers a personalized, root-cause strategy that goes beyond symptom suppression and focuses on restoring immune balance. With the right guidance, consistency, and individualized care, many people experience meaningful improvement and regain confidence in their health.
If MCAS symptoms are affecting your quality of life, exploring a functional medicine evaluation may be the next step toward lasting relief.
MCAS Care in Dallas–Fort Worth
→
Check out some of our most popular resources here.
Dr. David and the entire Integrative Wellness Fx team are passionate about sharing their expertise to empower you with knowledge supportive of your holistic health & lifestyle.
Join our tribe and stay connected with the latest updates, events, workshops & more!
Subscribe to our newsletter
Subscribe
You're all signed up!
Be sure to whitelist our email address so that all the goodies make it to your inbox.