People living with systemic mastocytosis (SM) face the daily challenge of trying to avoid an allergic reaction. Despite their vigilance to avoid certain foods, medication and emotional, physical and environmental triggers, allergic reactions can occur.
While not all reactions are life-threatening, the severity of certain symptoms can require urgent medical intervention–in cases of anaphylaxis, in particular.
Why do allergic reactions happen in SM?
SM is a rare white blood cell disorder that affects the mast cells, part of the immune system that protects the body against disease and infection. In SM, the mast cells proliferate uncontrollably and collect in the body’s connective tissue in the internal organs, skin, bone marrow and digestive tract.
Mast cells release an allergic reaction when triggered by sudden changes in temperature, emotional stress, physical effort, insect stings, certain foods and medicines, alcohol, pollen, strong perfumes and skin friction.
The resulting symptom episodes can negatively impact quality of life in the person living with SM, with consequences for daily life and a reduced capacity to continue with family and professional activities. Symptoms often vary from person to person in terms of duration and severity and may include hives, itchy skin, flushing, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, bone and joint pain, depression, mood swings and anaphylaxis.
Learn more about SM treatment and care
The potential risk of allergic reactions
While often uncomfortable and unpleasant, SM symptoms can mostly be managed at home. However, there may be occasions when it is advisable to go to the hospital. When several severe symptoms occur at the same time, this puts pressure on the body’s immune system that may lead to changes in heart rate and difficulty breathing. If this occurs, it is time to get medical care at the closest hospital.
Additionally, the onset of anaphylaxis can be life-threatening, and urgent medical care is vital. Every patient with SM must always have epinephrine on hand to administer as soon as the signs of anaphylaxis appear.
Symptoms are usually mild and then progressively worsen, but immediate action is required if anaphylaxis is suspected. The epinephrine must be given urgently before either calling an ambulance or being urgently taken to the hospital.
Signs of anaphylaxis
These are some of the signs of anaphylaxis, which require you to seek urgent medical attention:
- Labored or noisy breathing
- Swelling of the tongue
- Swelling or tightness in the throat, making swallowing difficult
- Feeling confused or tired
- Feeling faint or dizzy
- Skin that feels cold to the touch
- Pale or blue skin and tongue
If you have one or more of these symptoms during an allergic reaction, please seek medical help immediately.
