Pulmonary Sarcoidosis

Sarcoidosis is a disease that causes inflammation of the body tissues. This inflammation leads to small lumps, called granulomas. Sarcoidosis can affect any organ in the body, but often starts in the lungs and lymph nodes.

Who Gets Sarcoidosis?

Sarcoidosis results from a problem with the body’s immune system (the system that fights infection). It is not known what causes sarcoidosis. Anyone of any age, race, or gender can get the disease. But it most often affects people between the ages of 20 and 40.

How Does Sarcoidosis Affect the Lungs?

When you breathe in, you inhale air rich in oxygen through your nose or mouth. This oxygen travels from the lungs to the blood, where it is carried to the rest of the body. When you have pulmonary sarcoidosis, your lungs become scarred (pulmonary fibrosis). This scarring can make it hard to take a full breath. The damage can also make it harder for oxygen to pass from the lungs into the blood.

What Are the Symptoms of Pulmonary Sarcoidosis?

People with pulmonary sarcoidosis may have a dry cough, tightness in the chest, and tiredness. Other symptoms include wheezing, shortness of breath, and loss of appetite. However, most people have no symptoms at all. In some cases, this disease stops getting worse or even suddenly goes away. In others, the disease is chronic (long lasting).

How Is Pulmonary Sarcoidosis Treated?

Many people with sarcoidosis don’t need treatment. The disease may not cause symptoms. And it may go away on its own. If treatment is needed, it can be done to help relieve symptoms, reduce inflammation, and help prevent lasting damage. Medications are used to treat sarcoidosis. Medications are often taken in pill form, but they may also be inhaled. More than one medication may be used. Some common medications are listed below.

• Prednisone is one of the most commonly used medications for sarcoidosis. Prednisone is an anti-inflammatory steroid medication (corticosteroid). It helps prevent or reduce inflammation that can damage lungs.

• Azathioprine is an anti-inflammatory medication. It may be used alone or with prednisone. It helps reduce lung inflammation.

• Cyclophosphamide is a type of anti-inflammatory medication used for the treatment of lung problems. Your doctor may prescribe this medication along with prednisone. You may also be given it as a single dose if you have problems taking prednisone.

Note: These medications can have serious side effects. Talk to your doctor about them. Never stop taking this medication without your doctor’s consent. And always tell your doctor or pharmacist about all medications you use, including any over-the-counter medications, herbs, or supplements.