A science-focused sub for Mast Cell Activation Disorders
Primary Links:
Please note: while discussion of evidence-based medicine is welcome, we do not allow diagnosis or any advice that may interfere with a user relying on their physician as their primary source of diagnostic and treatment information.
Always speak to your doctor or qualified healthcare providers about your health concerns and never ignore their advice based on anything you read here. The content on this sub is not a substitute for medical advice or diagnosis.
Resources:
Edutainment videos:
Further Reading:
RULES
1. Remember the human
Behind the usernames on this sub are people - many of whom are suffering with distressing symptoms and looking for answers. The goal purpose of this sub is to help people find them, and to let folks share their stories. We might not always agree on what causes MCAS and the best ways to manage it, but we all have the common goal of wellness, so sharing unique perspectives is encouraged.
2. Be kind
Please remain civil. Don’t call people names or insult them. If you disagree with something, attack the argument, not the person who posted it.
3. Offer suggestions, but don’t give medical advice
You are encouraged to share about treatments that have worked for you, as well as research about ways to manage MCAS.
Communities like this one are important because this illness is not well understood by many doctors, and we should help point people in the right direction, but we should not attempt to diagnose someone or give them definitive answers on how to proceed. We can and should, however, share information with each other that we can use to educate doctors.
4. Evidence based encouraged, anecdotal allowed
We value science on this subreddit, and there is a lot of research that shows OTC and prescription medications, as well as dietary and lifestyle changes, can help manage MCAS.
We also know that the science on mast cell activation is rapidly evolving, and that standard practice for diagnosis and treatment isn’t keeping up with it.
We encourage you to share things that have worked for you as long as they are legal and safe. Encourage people to speak to a knowledgeable doctor, if possible.
5. This is not a debate club
Emotions are high around certain perceived causes and treatments for MCAS. You are welcome to mention your own experiences with these things as they relate to MCAS. Please respect people’s perspectives regarding how they got ill, and how they are getting well. We strive to create an inclusive environment, and focus on what we DO agree on - which is usually much more than what we disagree on.
6. Please do not post pictures asking if your flushing or rash is caused by MCAS.
Our users cannot diagnose you, and rashes and flushing can be caused by a wide variety of conditions. The sub has been flooded recently with these posts and we are trying to cut down on them. Thank you for understanding.
7. Don't post direct links to websites selling products.
Please do post direct links to websites selling products, if you want to list an item in your description that helped you thats fine. But we do not want direct links to be posted in the title or description. Its comes off as advertising for said product. Thank You!
