Sarcoidosis Specialist

What is sarcoidosis?

Sarcoidosis is an incurable disease that causes groups of inflammatory cells (granulomas) to form in specific parts of your body. Granulomas can develop anywhere, but they’re most common in the lungs and lymph nodes.

With early intervention and treatment, most people with sarcoidosis live healthy and active lives. Even so, in many cases, it results in lasting lung damage.

Who is at risk of experiencing sarcoidosis?

Anyone can develop sarcoidosis, but several factors may increase your risk, including being between the ages of 20-60 or being a woman. You’re also more likely to experience sarcoidosis if it runs in your family. 

What are the symptoms of sarcoidosis?

The symptoms of sarcoidosis include:

• Fatigue
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Unexplained weight loss
• Joint pain
• Swelling in the feet and ankles
• Dry cough
• Shortness of breath
• Wheezing
• Chest pain
• Sores on your nose or cheeks
• Areas of skin that are darker than others

If you have sarcoidosis, you might also experience eye-related symptoms, like blurred vision, sensitivity to light, or dry eyes.

What causes sarcoidosis?

Researchers aren’t entirely sure what causes sarcoidosis, but several factors may contribute. For example, some people may have a genetic predisposition to the condition. Outside factors may also play a role, like exposure to bacteria, viruses, or pollutants.

How is sarcoidosis diagnosed?

Fivestar Pulmonary Associates diagnoses sarcoidosis during an in-office visit.

Your physician reviews your medical records and asks about your symptoms. Next, they conduct a physical exam. During the exam, your Fivestar Pulmonary Associates physician feels your lymph nodes for swelling, examines your skin for rashes or lesions, and listens to your heart and lungs.

Next, they order a series of screens, including blood work and urinalysis, pulmonary function tests, and chest X-rays. If the X-rays show that you have lung nodules, your physician might also order a biopsy. 

How is sarcoidosis treated?

There’s no cure for sarcoidosis, but various treatments can prevent the disease from getting worse. Fivestar Pulmonary Associates might recommend:

• Corticosteroids
• Medications that suppress your immune system
• Hydroxychloroquine (a drug that treats skin lesions)
• Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) inhibitors

Your physician might also recommend physical therapy to combat fatigue or pulmonary rehabilitation to increase lung capacity and improve your quality of life. 

Call the office today to schedule your appointment or book online.