Mast Cell Disorders Forum

Mast Cell Disorders Forum
http://mastcelldisorders.wallack.us/yabb/YaBB.pl Support and Encouragement >> In need of encouragement RIGHT NOW! >> scared, feel like this is getting worse http://mastcelldisorders.wallack.us/yabb/YaBB.pl?num=1304974794 Message started by Godsgal on 05/09/11 at 09:59:54

Title: scared, feel like this is getting worse
Post by Godsgal on 05/09/11 at 09:59:54

Hello....newer here to the forum but I'm getting more active on here. I'm newly diagnosed with cutaneous masto and have had some severe symptoms that came on me suddenly when I was living in a house with toxic mold. I have POTS that came with that too.

I just started my new meds....claritin 10 mg & pepcid 40 mg twice a day. I'm reacting every day now whereas before I wasn't!!!! My clothes, bras, everything is bugging me. I'm numb, tingling in my neck, throat, hands, back. I feel numbness everywhere!!!! It started in my face a few days ago and now it's spreading other places. My throat, hands, arms, and back now. I have a sinus infection too. WHAT GIVES???? When I stretch my muscles, it exacerbates the tingling. I'm struggling emotionally, mentally, spiritually. I want to run and hide but I know that won't help. I need help!!!!!! I'm desperate!!!! Scared to cry because I don't want to trigger anything.

Title: Re: scared, feel like this is getting worse
Post by Riverwn on 05/09/11 at 12:45:44

Hon youre gonna be ok.. I promise. Think back.. when did the tingling start? What med was added just before it? Stop that med for a few days. Give me a list of what you are on now--and remember whenever you react ADD A DOSE of something you know will work--like Benadryl or Vistaril. PM me anytime you want ok?? Im usually home :)
Hugs
Ramona

Title: Re: scared, feel like this is getting worse
Post by Joan on 05/09/11 at 17:57:45

If you have a sinus infection, the bacteria can cause mast cell activation. If you're taking antibiotics for it, you could be reacting to that. You could be reacting to the antihistamine or other ingredients in the pills. As Ramona says, work your way backwards through your meds and see if any one of them is causing the problem. You might also switch to a dye free liquid Benadryl should be okay for you if you're not allergic to Benadryl. There is also a dye free liquid Zyrtec.

Ramona, isn't tingling and numbness a symptom of B12 deficiency, too?

Let your doctor know what's happening, and ask for suggestions from him/her. If you need something to relax you, ask for it.

Title: Re: scared, feel like this is getting worse
Post by Susan on 05/09/11 at 21:13:34

Are you still living in the house with mold? Mold exposure can cause some of those symptoms, too. If you are one of the 25% of the population genetically susceptible to molds, you may not get better just by moving away from the mold. It can trigger your immune system in a way it can't turn off without help. The numbness and tingling is a very common symptom in that.

Just like with masto, not all doctors know about treating mold exposures. If treating your masto doesn't help with these symptoms, it may be something to look into.

Title: Re: scared, feel like this is getting worse
Post by ruth on 05/10/11 at 00:10:36

Susan, how do you know if you are one of those 25% susceptible to mold? And I take it you don't mean allergic to, as in an IgE mediated reaction?

Title: Re: scared, feel like this is getting worse
Post by Riverwn on 05/10/11 at 05:11:32

Joan, yes it is. He might need some testing done to see where his body is at right now--just basic blood work type thing. Hope you feel better soon!
Ramona

Title: Re: scared, feel like this is getting worse
Post by Susan on 05/11/11 at 14:32:12

Hi Ruth,
The test is for HLA typing, done at Labcorp. You can read about the test here. http://www.survivingmold.com/diagnosis/lab-tests
You are right, it isn't talking about IgE mold allergy. It is considered a toxin in this case.

You can read more about the whole issue of mold at http://www.survivingmold.com/
I know, and have worked with Dr. Shoemaker. Things are not always as easy as he says, but I have seen his treatments help a lot of people. He doesn't always acknowledge that there may be other problems involved, so you have to advocate for yourself, but if you have mold issues, he is one of the best. He will often consult with a physician if you have one who is open to considering it.