Dr. Ahmed Albusoda

Dr. Ahmed Albusoda Dr. Ahmed Albusoda Dr. Ahmed Albusoda

020 7377 0939

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020 7377 0939

Dr. Ahmed Albusoda

Dr. Ahmed Albusoda Dr. Ahmed Albusoda Dr. Ahmed Albusoda
  • Home
  • Team
  • Locations
  • Book online
  • Fees
  • Contact
  • Resources
  • Videos

Conditions

I treat a broad range of conditions, including:

Gastroenterologist on blurred background using digital x-ray of human intestine

  • Dysphagia 
  • Diarrhoea
  • Heartburn 
  • Constipation 
  • Achalasia 
  • Celiac disease 
  • Gastroparesis 
  • Liver cirrhosis 
  • Fatty liver disease 
  • Dumping syndrome 
  • Chronic pancreatitis 
  • Abdominal wall pain 
  • Nausea and vomiting 
  • Hemorrhoids /Plies 
  • Oesophageal spasms 
  • Bowel cancer 
  • Stomach cancer 
  • Hepatitis 

Those conditons are diagnosed and treated by NHS or  private gastroenterologist. See our London locations. 

Digital composite of highlighted red pain stomach of woman

  • Barrett’s oesophagus 
  • Bile salt malabsorption 
  • Oesophageal strictures 
  • Indigestion (dyspepsia) 
  • Primary sclerosing cholangitis 
  • Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) 
  • Stomach ulcers and peptic ulcers 
  • Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth 
  • Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) 
  • SIBO (syndrome of small intestinal bacterial overgrowth)  
  • Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis 
  • Anterior cutaneous nerve entrapment syndrome 
  • Lynch syndrome 
  • Anal fissures 
  •  Laryngopharyngeal Reflux (LPR)
  • Chronic cough caused by acid reflux  
  • Fatty liver 

Educational Resources

How to talk about bowel issues with your doctorDiet in constipationNatural ways to treat acid refluxLow residue diet Corset muscle exercises Acid reflux in athletesExamples of low FODMAP diet
Procedures

If you have any questions regarding my medical services and procedures, please get in touch with my team. You can also use our online booking system to book a private gastroenterologist appointment in one of our London locations. 

Book an appointment

Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS)

 

Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS): Unmasking the Potential GI Culprit Behind Your Digestive Issues

Do you experience a rollercoaster of digestive woes – bloating, cramping, diarrhoea, or constipation – that seem to come out of the blue and defy explanation? You might not be alone. Mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS) is an underdiagnosed condition that can wreak havoc on your gut, mimicking symptoms of other digestive disorders.

What is MCAS?

Imagine tiny guard cells in your body called mast cells. Their job is to release histamine and other chemicals to fight off allergies and infections. In MCAS, these mast cells become overactive, releasing a flood of inflammatory chemicals that attack healthy tissues. This can affect various organs, including your digestive system.

MCAS and the GI Tract: A Match Made in Misery

The lining of your gut is densely packed with mast cells. When these cells overreact in MCAS, it triggers a cascade of problems:

  • Increased intestinal permeability: This "leaky gut" allows undigested food particles and harmful substances to enter your bloodstream, leading to inflammation and discomfort.
  • Muscle spasms: Mast cell mediators can trigger spasms in the smooth muscles of your gut, causing cramping, bloating, and pain.
  • Abnormal fluid secretion: MCAS can disrupt the normal flow of fluids in your digestive tract, leading to diarrhoea or constipation.
  • Food sensitivities: MCAS can mimic food intolerances, causing reactions even to foods you normally tolerate.

GI Symptoms of MCAS: When to Consider This Hidden Culprit

While MCAS can cause a wide range of digestive issues, some of the most common ones include:

  • Abdominal pain: Cramping, burning, or a general feeling of discomfort in your belly.
  • Bloating: A feeling of tightness or fullness in your abdomen.
  • Diarrhoea: Frequent loose stools that may be urgent or watery.
  • Constipation: Difficulty passing stools.
  • Nausea and vomiting: Feeling sick or throwing up.
  • Heartburn or acid reflux: A burning sensation in your chest.

Diagnosing MCAS: Putting the Puzzle Pieces Together

Unfortunately, there's no single definitive test for MCAS. Diagnosis often involves a combination of:

  • Detailed medical history: Discussing your symptoms and triggers with your doctor.
  • Physical examination: Ruling out other conditions with similar symptoms.
  • Blood and urine tests: Checking for elevated levels of mast cell mediators.
  • Exclusion of other GI disorders: Ensuring alternative explanations like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) are ruled out.

Living with MCAS: Taming the Mast Cell Storm

While there's no cure for MCAS, there are ways to manage it and improve your quality of life. Treatment may include:

  • Medications: Antihistamines, mast cell stabilisers, and medications to manage specific symptoms like diarrhoea or nausea.
  • Dietary modifications: Identifying and avoiding food triggers that worsen your symptoms.
  • Stress management: Stress can exacerbate MCAS symptoms, so relaxation techniques can be helpful.

The Takeaway: Don't Let MCAS Hold You Hostage

MCAS could be the missing piece of the puzzle if you're struggling with unexplained digestive woes. Talking to your GP about your symptoms and exploring a diagnosis can be the first step towards finding relief. Remember, you're not alone – with proper management, you can take control of your gut health and live a fulfilling life.

MCAS criteria Calculator- use with caution

Dr Albusoda - private gastroenterologist in London

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