The symptom burden of systemic mastocytosis (SM) can be a challenge to manage in daily life. Part of managing SM is avoiding the triggers that activate the different symptoms, which vary from person to person.
Learning to recognize, avoid and proactively treat the range of possible symptoms can help you better understand your systemic mastocytosis.
What causes the symptoms of SM?
Symptom episodes can be trigged by physical exertion, emotional stress, sudden changes in hot and cold, alcohol, certain foods and medications, insect stings, pollens and other allergens. Symptoms can include digestive issues, mood changes, skin flushing and irritation, muscle and joint pain, headache, brain fog and anaphylaxis, which could be life-threatening.
Tracking symptoms and their triggers
For people living with SM, it takes time to understand how and when symptoms occur and the best way to manage them. The severity and duration is not always the same, and some symptoms have a greater effect on your quality of life.
Learn more about SM signs and symptoms
Keeping a detailed log of your symptoms is an effective way to track their progression. By sharing the log with your doctor, he or she can track the progression of your condition and also help your health care team monitor the effectiveness of your medication and adjust it accordingly.
How to keep a symptom diary
Format: There are various formats you can use for a symptom diary or log: a notebook, a diary or an app. Find the one that works best for you.
Be consistent: Logging your symptoms will only be of benefit if you record them every day.
Be detailed: Describe in detail the physical and emotional symptoms. What are the symptoms? What was the trigger? What do they look like? How do they make you feel? Would you classify them as mild, moderate or severe? Are they progressively worsening or improving? How are you managing or treating the symptom? What is the effect on your daily life? Are you taking any medication? If so, record the frequency and dosage.
Be honest: Share as much information as possible, and be honest with each detail.
