Gastrointestinal issues are commonly reported by people living with systemic mastocytosis (SM), existing in 60%-80% of patients.
These symptoms may be quite severe and include bloating, abdominal cramps and pain, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. To reduce the effect of these symptoms on patients’ lives, certain dietary and lifestyle changes can be adopted.
Finding the right medication and avoiding symptom triggers are also essential to successfully managing the digestive symptoms associated with SM.
Why do digestive issues occur in SM patients?
SM is a rare white blood disease, which causes mast cells to multiply uncontrollably. They then buildup in the connective tissue of the skin, internal organs and bone marrow, where they release histamine and other chemicals as part of the body’s immune response. As well as gastrointestinal symptoms, people living with systemic mastocytosis can experience skin inflammation and itching, headache, fatigue, joint pain, palpitations, mood changes and low blood pressure.
When mast cells infiltrate the gastrointestinal tract, they cause digestive issues. There is no cure for SM, and treatment is focused on avoiding symptom triggers and managing the symptom burden through medication, diet and lifestyle.
Learn more about SM signs and symptoms
Symptoms triggers in systemic mastocytosis
Symptom triggers can vary from person to person, but most commonly, they include:
- High-histamine foods
- Alcohol
- Insect stings or bites
- Physical or emotional exertion
- Sudden changes in temperature
- Friction on the skin
- Strong smells
- Mold
- Pollen
- Certain medications
By identifying their personal triggers, people living with SM can prevent the rapid onset of symptoms, which can be debilitating. These symptom episodes can also lead to the most severe of allergic reactions, anaphylaxis, which can be life-threatening if not treated immediately.
In the case of gastrointestinal symptoms, there is a risk that over time, they may develop into longer lasting complications such as peptic ulcers.
Tips for managing SM-relate digestive issues
The management of digestive issues stemming from SM requires medical treatment as well as dietary considerations. Two main treatment options include blocking the effects of histamine with antihistamines and using proton pump inhibitors, which have proven to be successful in reducing gastric acid secretion. These medications reduce symptoms and the risk for disease progression.
A low-histamine diet can also help, and those who adopt it will avoid processed food, aged cheeses, additives, colors and preservatives, as well as certain high-acidity fruit and vegetables such as tomatoes, spinach, citrus and bananas.
Home cooked meals with fresh ingredients that are either low in histamine or that do not induce a histamine response are recommended. An elimination diet, with the guidance of a nutritionist, can help determine foods that are most triggering.
Certain dietary supplements can help support general health and well-being, such as a multivitamin and vitamin supplement, along with Vitamin C. Of course, this will be part of the treatment plan defined by your doctor, and you should consult your doctor before enacting any major diet or lifestyle changes.
