My Illnesses

     So you're wandering what's plaguing my body... Truth is not even I really know. But I'll try to explain it to you! I have two main things wrong with me: Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) and Mast Cell Activation Disorder (MCAD). They are both chronic illnesses, which means I'll have them for life and there's also no cure for either. Which sucks. However; there are treatment options and most people with these conditions live a full and happy life. Right now my POTS is under control with proper hydration and medication as needed. My MCAD is a different story. I am currently in a flare, which means my symptoms are way worse, and we are still looking for the best treatment options. So.. what are these conditions? I'm glad you asked.

Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome: 
     When you change positions your autonomic nervous system is supposed to make sure that you don't pass out. So when you stand up your autonomic nervous system is supposed to make sure you get blood to your head and that it doesn't all end up at your feet. My nervous system "forgets" to do that.

Symptoms Can Include (But Are Not Limited To)
~dizziness
~fast heart rate
~low blood pressure
~brain fog
~nausea/vomiting
~syncope/near syncope
~shaky tremors
~blackouts
~swelling in extremities/ blood pooling
     There are so many more symptoms, and it varies from person to person, but these are my most prominent ones. Right now I am treating this with an extremely high sodium diet, lots and lots and lots of water, and electrolyte drinks. I do have a rescue medication (midodrine) for days when my blood pressure gets extremely low or if I am very symptomatic.
What Is POTS?

Mast Cell Activation Disorder:
     This is a relatively new addition to the medical field. Doctors know it exists but there hasn't been much research on it. The gist of it is that my mast cells don't know how to control themselves and are constantly releasing histamine into my blood stream. Histamine is what causes the itchiness when you get bit by a mosquito. Essentially; my body is in an allergic reaction 24/7. My reactions can range anywhere from a minor headache to full blown anaphylaxis. And just because something is "safe" for me to eat one day doesn't mean it'll be safe for me to eat tomorrow.
Symptoms can Include (But Are Not Limited To)
~anaphylaxis
~migraines
~shortness of breath/ chest pain
~abdominal cramping
~nausea
~GI symptoms (I'll let you figure out what that means)
~seizures
~stroke like symptoms
     Just like POTS, mast cell activation has a wide array of symptoms that vary from person to person. And like I said; it can change from day to day. Treatment for this isn't as easy as my treatment for POTS. I am currently taking a combination of four different antihistamines, an anxiety medication which is also a mast cell stabilizer, and a high dose of steroids. Even with all of this I am still extremely reactive. My doctors and I are working to find a more effective treatment plan but until that happens I will keep doing what I'm doing. I also carry at least two epi pens with me at all times. I have had to use them multiple times and honestly believe I wouldn't be here if I hadn't had them so close by during some of my more severe reactions.
Allergic To Life Video

     My body is unpredictable. I've spent countless years and doctors appointments trying to get the correct diagnosis. And now that I know what is wreaking havok on my body I'm able to work on treatment plans that work for me. It's a long and never ending road but God has a plan for me so I might as well fight to stick around and see what he has in store.
     If you have any questions about my conditions or any questions in general feel free to contact me! I love educating others about what's going on inside me. The more people that understand the safer I am.

With Love,
Elizabeth  <3