Hormones and MCAS with Dr. Dempsey, Mast Cell Matters: Deep Dives on MCAS

In this podcast episode, Dr. Tania Dempsey explores the complex interactions between hormones and mast cells, particularly in relation to stages in a woman's life such as puberty, pregnancy, and menopause. She explains that mast cells, part of the immune system, respond to hormonal signals—such as estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone—and how hormonal fluctuations can exacerbate Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) symptoms. Dr. Dempsey discusses the potential linkage between MCAS and Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), with a shared underlying factor being insulin resistance. She posits that addressing insulin resistance through lifestyle changes and pharmacological interventions like Metformin may alleviate symptoms in both conditions. In menopause, hormonal changes may calm MCAS symptoms, although hormone replacement therapy can reactivate these. Various treatment approaches are highlighted, emphasizing the need for personalized medicine in managing MCAS symptoms affected by hormonal changes, along with the potential use of mast cell stabilizers in certain reproductive conditions.