Welcome back to the NCS Podcast! In this episode, we’re diving into a powerful and personal story from one of our own—Lilly. She shares her journey living with mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS) alongside vascular compressions—specifically May-Thurner Syndrome (MTS) and Nutcracker Syndrome (NCS).

MCAS is a complex and often misunderstood condition, and for many in our community, it presents as a comorbidity that can make an already challenging path even harder. Lilly opens up about:

• The specific symptoms that led her to suspect something more was going on

• The diagnostic process she went through to finally get answers

• The medications, supplements, and strategies she currently uses to manage her MCAS

While MCAS can be a life-long condition, Lilly’s story is one of resilience and empowerment. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or still searching for answers, we hope this episode helps you feel less alone and more informed.

Below is additional information Lilly shared during the episode to support your journey navigating MCAS and vascular compressions:

• Phone Application: InTolerApp
• Test to request: Tryptase (blood) & 24-hr urine collection
• Medications: Cromolyn Sodium 10mg (prescription), Pepcid AC, multivitamin, and Clartin or Zyrtex (OTC)

• Supplements: DAO enzyme, vitamin C
• Cookbooks: Search "low histamine diet cookbooks" to find different recipes that appeal to you
• Article: Kirk, C. (2023). The Important Role of the Lymphatic System and Mast Cell Involvement in Nutcracker Syndrome and other Abdominal Vascular Compression Syndromes