What if I told you there was a simple, non-invasive therapy that could help soothe the excessive inflammation of mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS), reduce symptoms and flares, and even support your body in healing at the cellular level? And what if I told you that these impressive results could be achieved by simply exposing your body to specific wavelengths of light?

While the idea of using light therapy to manage the complex and often debilitating symptoms of MCAS may sound too good to be true, this innovative treatment is shedding new light on how we can best address this challenging condition.

In this blog post, we’ll explore a modality known as red light therapy, discuss how it interacts with your mast cells to provide relief, and most importantly – go over how you can incorporate this powerful therapy into your MCAS management plan. Let’s get started.

Understanding Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS)

Think of mast cells as your frontline defenders – tiny immune cells that vigilantly patrol your body for potential threats. When these small but mighty mast cells sense danger, they spring into action – swiftly initiating a process known as degranulation in which they release a potent mix of molecules that sound the alarm for the rest of your immune system to mobilize and respond to the perceived threat.

Now, in a well-regulated immune system, mast cells operate through a precise sequence that starts with degranulation and the release of this cascade of pro-inflammatory signaling molecules. Once the threat is identified and neutralized your immune system ramps back down and your mast cells shift back into standby mode. But sometimes, this delicate process can get thrown off-kilter – disrupting your mast cells and causing them to essentially get stuck in the “on” position.

This malfunctioning can lead to a condition known as mast cell activation syndrome or MCAS. In MCAS, your mast cells become over-reactive and overly aggressive – degranulating and releasing far too many inflammatory mediators far too often. These hypervigilant mast cells send your immune system into overdrive – making it challenging for your body to distinguish between harmless and harmful stimuli and triggering a host of unpleasant symptoms.^1,2

So how on earth can we soothe and stabilize these trigger-happy mast cells seen in MCAS?

How Is Mast Cell Activation Syndrome Treated?

Treating mast cell activation syndrome requires a comprehensive and multifaceted approach. Because MCAS is so complex and varies from person to person, treatment must be tailored to each individual’s unique triggers and symptoms. But all treatment approaches boil down to one common goal – soothing mast cells and helping them return to a more balanced state.

Some treatment strategies that might be employed to tame these overzealous mast cells include:

• Identifying and Avoiding Triggers: The first step in managing MCAS involves identifying and avoiding potential triggers that can provoke mast cell degranulation. These triggers can vary widely – from certain foods and environmental factors to stress and infections.
• Nutritional Support and Dietary Modifications: Implementing an anti-inflammatory diet and incorporating mast cell-stabilizing nutrients can significantly reduce symptoms. Foods rich in quercetin, vitamin C, and omega-3 fatty acids can help stabilize mast cells and mitigate inflammation.
• Supplementation: Specific supplements may be recommended to support overall immune health and mast cell stabilization.
• Medications: While addressing the root cause of MCAS requires lifestyle changes, in some cases, medications can play a crucial role in managing severe symptoms. Mast cell stabilizers, antihistamines, and leukotriene inhibitors can sometimes be useful in controlling symptoms and preventing flares.
• Detoxification and Gut Health: Supporting detoxification pathways and improving gut health are essential components of MCAS treatment. This may involve liver support, probiotics, and addressing any underlying gut dysbiosis.
• Stress Management: Stress is a known trigger for mast cell activation. Incorporating stress-reducing practices such as mindfulness, meditation, and yoga can help regulate the immune response and prevent exacerbations.
• Lifestyle Modifications: Regular exercise, adequate sleep, and a low-tox environment are critical for managing MCAS. Creating a low-stress, healthy lifestyle can significantly improve symptoms and help soothe misbehaving mast cells.

In addition to these foundational pillars in addressing MCAS, there is a whole arsenal of tools we can utilize to help mast cells stabilize. And one particularly powerful tool that we can tap into is a modality known as red light therapy.

What Is Red Light Therapy and How Does It Work?

Red light therapy or RLT harnesses the power of specific wavelengths of light to promote healing and rejuvenation at the cellular level. RLT involves exposing the skin to low levels of red or near-infrared light, which penetrates deep into the tissue. As these wavelengths of red light energy penetrate your tissues, this energy is absorbed by your cells, providing them with a concentrated boost that effectively “activates” them.

This activation sets off a cascade of cellular changes, including:^3,4,5

• Enhanced oxygenation and nutrient delivery to your cells.
• Increased production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) – the primary energy source for your cells.
• Improved cellular function, enhancing your cells’ ability to heal and regenerate.
• Boosted collagen production, essential for healing and supporting connective tissues, joints, skin, and more.
• Better balance in cellular alkalinity and increased activity of alkaline phosphatase – an enzyme crucial for healing and growth.
• Elevated production and release of nitric oxide – a key molecule that regulates the healing process and helps control inflammation.

With such profound effects, it’s easy to see why red light therapy can be a powerful tool in jumpstarting healing and rejuvenation. Now let’s take a closer look at the specific effects that RLT has on mast cells.

How Red Light Therapy Interacts With Mast Cells

While red light therapy can have a positive effect on all of your cells, it can have a particularly potent impact on your mast cells. Studies have found that red light therapy can elicit the following changes in mast cells.^6,7,8

• Reduction of Mast Cell Degranulation: RLT has been shown to stabilize mast cell membranes – preventing the release (degranulation) of histamines and other pro-inflammatory mediators. This stabilization helps in attenuating the hyperactive inflammatory responses characteristic of MCAS.
• Modulation of Inflammatory Mediators: RLT influences cytokine release by mast cells – decreasing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines while simultaneously promoting the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines – all of which add up to soothing the excessive inflammatory responses seen in MCAS.
• Impact on Mast Cell Density: Research indicates that RLT can reduce the overall density of mast cells in targeted tissues. This reduction in mast cell population decreases the potential for localized and systemic inflammation.
• Enhanced Cellular Function: RLT enhances mitochondrial function within mast cells, leading to increased production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). Improved ATP levels bolster cellular energy, enhance mast cell resilience, and promote a more regulated and balanced immune response.

This combination of effects can all add up to some significant benefits when it comes to managing MCAS.

Benefits of Red Light Therapy For MCAS

By influencing mast cell activity RLT not only helps reduce the immediate inflammatory responses but also supports the long-term stability and function of mast cells. Some of the benefits that red light therapy can have when used to manage MCAS include:

• Reduction in Overall Inflammation: RLT helps modulate the release of inflammatory mediators from mast cells – leading to a decrease in chronic inflammation and helping create a more balanced immune response.
• Reduced Flares and Reactions: Stabilizing mast cells and reducing their propensity to degranulate minimizes the frequency and severity of MCAS flares and reactions – leading to fewer episodes of acute symptoms and contributing to more consistent health stability.
• Pain Relief: RLT’s ability to reduce inflammation also translates into effective pain relief for those experiencing discomfort due to MCAS.
• Better Sleep and More Energy: Improved mitochondrial function and reduced inflammation contribute to better sleep quality and increased energy levels – helping to combat the fatigue and disrupted sleep patterns often associated with MCAS.
• Improved Overall Quality of Life: The combined effects of reduced inflammation, pain relief, and better sleep significantly can enhance the overall quality of life for those grappling with MCAS
• Enhanced Healing and Tissue Repair: RLT promotes cellular regeneration and tissue repair which can accelerate recovery from flares and supports long-term tissue health.
• Non-Invasive, Simple Treatment Option: RLT is non-invasive, simple, and easy to use – making it an effective and accessible way to keep MCAS symptoms in check.

But the benefits of red light therapy don’t end there.

Beyond MCAS: The Broader Benefits of Red Light Therapy

Red light therapy isn’t just beneficial for managing MCAS – it has a whole host of other uses that can support your overall health and wellness. Here are just a few of the ways RLT can make a difference:

• Skin Health: Whether you’re looking to reduce wrinkles, boost collagen, or speed up wound healing, RLT can help.
• Inflammation: If you’re dealing with arthritis or muscle soreness, RLT can help calm inflammation and soothe your symptoms.
• Muscle Recovery: After a tough workout, RLT can help your muscles recover faster and reduce fatigue.
• Hair Growth: Struggling with thinning hair? RLT can stimulate hair follicles and support regrowth.
• Sleep Quality: RLT can even improve your sleep by positively influencing your body’s natural rhythms.
• Immune Support: Regular RLT sessions can give your immune system a boost, helping you fend off infections more effectively.
• Chronic Pain Management: RLT has been shown to reduce chronic pain in conditions like fibromyalgia and neuropathy – offering a natural way to manage discomfort.
• Symptom Management for Other Conditions: Beyond MCAS, RLT can be a valuable tool in managing symptoms of various other conditions (like chronic fatigue syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, and Lyme disease to name a few) – offering relief and improved quality of life.

And what’s even more exciting is that RLT can be combined with other modalities to create cutting-edge protocols that can supercharge their effects.

Red Light Therapy and Methylene Blue: A Powerful Combination

One such promising duo is combining RLT with methylene blue – a powerful synthetic compound named for its hallmark deep blue hue. Research has found that RLT and methylene blue have a synergistic effect, adding up to some impressive effects like:

• Potent antimicrobial effects
• Providing neuroprotection
• Supporting neuroregeneration
• Enhancing mitochondrial function
• Boosting cellular energy and resilience
• And more

And while RLT can certainly be a powerful tool when it comes to managing and treating MCAS (among other conditions), it is important to remember that there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Each individual’s response to RLT can vary, and what works well for one person may not be as effective for another.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations Of RLT For MCAS

While red light therapy offers an array of potential benefits for managing MCAS, it’s important to consider some potential drawbacks and limitations. Understanding these considerations can help you make informed decisions about incorporating RLT into your treatment regimen.

• Individual Variability: The response to RLT can vary significantly from person to person. While some may experience significant improvements in symptoms, others may notice minimal or no change. This variability underscores the importance of personalized treatment plans and monitoring.
• Potential for Initial Symptom Flare: Some people may experience a temporary increase in symptoms when starting RLT. This initial flare can be due to the body’s adjustment to the therapy and the activation of underlying healing processes. It is essential to start with shorter sessions and gradually increase exposure to minimize this risk.
• Heat Sensitivity: The heat generated by RLT may be a concern for some MCAS patients, potentially worsening symptoms. It’s important to keep track of how your body reacts and adjust your treatment if needed.
• Time and Commitment: RLT requires regular sessions to achieve optimal results. This commitment to consistent treatment can be time-consuming and presents a challenge when it comes to busy schedules.
• Cost: The cost of RLT can be a significant consideration. While home devices are available, they can be expensive, and professional treatments at clinics can add up over time. It is important to weigh the potential benefits against the financial investment required for ongoing RLT sessions.

By being aware of these potential drawbacks and considerations, you can better navigate the decision-making process and work with healthcare professionals you trust to determine if RLT is right for you.

Getting Started with Red Light Therapy for MCAS

If you’re considering incorporating red light therapy into your MCAS management plan, there are a couple of ways to get started. Whether you prefer the expertise of clinic-based treatments or the convenience of home devices, exploring your options can help you choose the best approach for your needs.

Clinic Treatments:

Clinic-based RLT treatments offer a more intensive and precisely targeted approach, administered by healthcare professionals trained in using advanced RLT equipment. These sessions are ideal for those seeking professional oversight – particularly if you’re new to RLT or dealing with more severe MCAS symptoms. The therapy can be customized to your specific needs, with close monitoring to ensure optimal results.

Additionally, clinics often provide complementary therapies alongside RLT, enhancing the overall effectiveness of your treatment.

Here at AIM Center for Wellness, we offer RLT as part of a personalized and comprehensive treatment plan that includes a variety of other therapies designed to support your overall health and well-being. Our protocols and equipment are entirely customized to you – with timing, heat settings, and other factors adjusted to meet your specific needs and preferences.

Home Treatments:

Home RLT devices offer a more flexible way to experience the benefits of red light therapy in the comfort of your own space. Available in various forms – such as handheld units, light panels, and full-body beds – these devices can be tailored to fit your specific needs and lifestyle. While home devices may be less powerful than those used in clinics, consistent use can still yield significant results – making it easy to incorporate RLT into your daily routine and maintain the frequency needed for optimal outcomes.

If you’re looking for high-quality home RLT options, I recommend HigherDose’s lineup of RLT-based devices. They offer a range of products, including red light sauna blankets, red light masks, and more – providing powerful options to help you seamlessly incorporate RLT into your routine. Click here to learn more about HigherDose and their health-elevating technology.

How Often Should You Use RLT for Managing MCAS?

When it comes to red light therapy for managing MCAS, the right frequency really depends on your unique needs and how your body responds.

If you’re new to red light therapy, it can be helpful to try incorporating RLT 1-2 times a week to give your body time to adjust and start experiencing the benefits without overwhelming your system. Once your body has acclimated, bumping it up to 3 times a week tends to produce the best results when aiming for maintenance and keeping flares at bay.

But if you’re dealing with an acute situation or a sudden flare, it can sometimes be useful to consider doing RLT 4-5 times a week to help you get things under control more quickly. These are general guidelines as you are entirely unique and will respond differently to RLT than the next person. The real key is finding a routine that works best for you and sticking with it.

Are There Any Other Strategies I Can Use To Manage MCAS?

Red light therapy can undoubtedly be an immensely helpful tool in managing MCAS. But taking steps to prevent flares and stabilize your mast cells requires a whole-life, big-picture approach. If you’re looking to dive deeper into how you can best manage MCAS, I recommend checking out the following resources:

• Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS): A Hidden Epidemic
• Introduction to mast cells and mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS) with Dr. Tania Dempsey
• Mast cell activation syndrome and complex chronic diseases like endometriosis with Tania Dempsey, MD
• Ask The Mast Cell Activation Syndrome Doctors
• Navigating the Healthcare System with Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS)

Taking steps to manage and heal the underlying dysfunction triggering your mast cells to become over-reactive is the key to minimizing symptoms, regulating mast cells, and getting back to feeling like yourself again.

Looking For Ways To Better Manage Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS)?

Trying to manage mast cell activation syndrome can feel overwhelming – especially when exploring new treatment options like red light therapy. But with the right information and support, you can take proactive steps toward managing your symptoms and stabilizing your mast cells.

If you’re navigating the challenges of MCAS and aren’t sure where to start, please know, you don’t have to face this alone. Here at AIM Center for Wellness, MCAS is one of our specialties. We employ a range of diagnostics, lifestyle modifications, and therapies (including red light therapy) to help you feel your very best and support your body in healing.

To learn more about AIM and how we can help you navigate MCAS, simply click right here and contact our office today!

Resources:

1. Histology, Mast Cells – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf (nih.gov)
2. Mast Cell Activation Syndrome: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment (webmd.com)
3. A Controlled Trial to Determine the Efficacy of Red and Near-Infrared Light Treatment in Patient Satisfaction, Reduction of Fine Lines, Wrinkles, Skin Roughness, and Intradermal Collagen Density Increase – PMC (nih.gov)
4. Red Light Therapy: Benefits, Side Effects & Uses (clevelandclinic.org)
5. Low-Intensity Light Therapy: Exploring the Role of Redox Mechanisms – PMC (nih.gov)
6. Influence of 670 nm low-level laser therapy on mast cells and vascular response of cutaneous injuries – ScienceDirect
7. Medscape Registration
8. Do laser and led phototherapies influence mast cells and myofibroblasts to produce collagen? – PubMed (nih.gov)