No one knows for sure what causes it, but the good news is that we do have successful methods for treating pulmonary sarcoidosis.
Sarcoidosis is a rare disease, and the cause is currently unknown. Almost 90 percent of the cases of sarcoidosis are found in the lungs and lymph nodes, but it can occur in almost any organ. It can occur in any race, at any age and at in both sexes, but is more common in people of African-American, Scandinavian, or Asian origin between ages 20 and 40.
Sarcoidosis causes small lumps, or granulomas, which generally heal and disappear on their own. However, for those granulomas that do not heal, the tissue can remain inflamed and become scarred, or fibrotic. Pulmonary sarcoidosis can develop into pulmonary fibrosis, which distorts the structure of the lungs and can interfere with breathing.
At INTEGRIS Health, we’re dedicated to helping you breathe easier, with a multi-discipline team that will do everything in their power to treat your breathing problem and fight diseases of your lungs and airways. Chances are, with the right medications and teamwork, we can treat your sarcoidosis very effectively.
Most patients with sarcoidosis do not have symptoms and probably are unaware they have the disease. The following are the most common symptoms. However, you may experience symptoms differently – and these symptoms may resemble other conditions or medical problems, so it’s always best to talk with your doctor:
Sarcoidosis can also cause symptoms not directly related to the lungs, such as:
In addition to a complete medical history and physical examination, your doctor might perform the following diagnostic procedures to check for sarcoidosis:
Sarcoidosis is usually diagnosed by elimination, meaning other lung disorders that have similar symptoms are progressively eliminated, leading to a diagnosis of sarcoidosis.
Specific treatment for pulmonary sarcoidosis will be determined by your doctor based on your age, overall health, medical history, the extent of the disease and your tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or therapies. Of course, your personal opinions and preferences will also be taken into consideration.
Different treatments work better for different people. Sometimes more than one treatment is used, and in many cases, no treatment is needed. Most medications used to treat sarcoidosis suppress the immune system.
Treatment may include the use of corticosteroids, such as prednisone. Other medicines, such as methotrexate, may be used if corticosteroids do not work, you wish to avoid side effects of corticosteroids, or your sarcoidosis gets worse.
Our pulmonary rehabilitation programs at INTEGRIS help you by creating individualized plans and education, so you can do more things you enjoy. Support services include:
