Sarcoidosis Specialist

Sarcoidosis is an inflammatory condition that affects different areas of the body, but mostly the lungs or the lymph glands.

People who have sarcoidosis often develop lumps called granulomas, which collect in the organs or underneath the skin. These growths can affect how the organs function.

There isn’t a cure for sarcoidosis; sometimes the condition goes away on its own, and sometimes patients require treatment to prevent symptoms from worsening.

What are the symptoms of sarcoidosis?

Symptoms of sarcoidosis vary depending on how long you’ve had the condition or where the granulomas have formed. Some of the most commonly reported symptoms are:

• Respiratory issues: dry cough, shortness of breath, tightness in the chest
• Skin rashes: small, raised patches on the face, arms, legs, or buttocks
• Eye problems: inflammation of the eyes, cataracts, or glaucoma

People with sarcoidosis might also experience fatigue, fever, or weight loss.

What causes sarcoidosis?

There isn’t one clear cause of sarcoidosis. However, the condition may develop as a person’s immune system reacts to a substance inhaled through the air, such as a chemical or environmental toxin. Since it’s an immune-related condition, people with sarcoidosis may have an abnormal immune response.

The condition occurs most often in people who are between the ages of 20 and 40, and women are more frequently diagnosed with sarcoidosis than men. There may be a genetic component to sarcoidosis, as having a family member with the condition increases your odds of developing the disease.

How is sarcoidosis treated?

Treatment for sarcoidosis begins with a series of diagnostic tests. We may recommend X-rays, a CT scan, blood tests, or lung function tests to determine how the condition is affecting your organs, and in which areas of the body it is most concentrated.

Depending on the results of these tests, he may prescribe medication to help manage the body’s inflammatory response and treat skin problems. Your treatment may also include lifestyle modifications to help you achieve better lung function or immune system health.

Most patients can easily recover from sarcoidosis, and our providers at Maiden Lane Medical is highly skilled in treating this and other immune-related conditions. To schedule an appointment today, call the office or book a consultation online.