MCAS, Lyme, & Dysautonomia with Dr. Tania Dempsey, MD, ABIHM
In the podcast interview with Dr. Tania Dempsey, a leading expert in complex multi-system diseases, she explains Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) and its varied symptoms, which often overlap with conditions such as dysautonomia and Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS). Dr. Dempsey describes mast cells as a part of the immune system that can become dysfunctional in MCAS, leading to a range of symptoms affecting multiple body systems. Testing for MCAS can be complex as it involves measuring chemical mediators released by mast cells. She also discusses potential triggers like viruses, vaccines, and infections like Lyme disease and highlights the difficulty in diagnosing MCAS due to its multi-system involvement. Dr. Dempsey acknowledges the importance of personalized care, noting that symptoms and effective treatments can vary widely among patients. The interview emphasizes the intricate relationship between MCAS, POTS, EDS, and infections, advocating for a holistic approach to diagnosis and management.