April is Sarcoidosis Awareness Month. There are an estimated 1.2 million people worldwide, with roughly 175,000 individuals in America suffering from Sarcoidosis. Since this condition is difficult to diagnose and has limited treatment and no known cure, working with medical professionals to be an advocate for this condition is imperative. At Direct Primary Care of Boca Raton, we are always looking to educate our patients and want you to know the ins and outs of Sarcoidosis.
What Is Sarcoidosis?
Sarcoidosis is a condition where tiny collections of immune system cells in any part of the body form red, swollen lumps called granulomas. Often these granulomas occur in the lungs and the lymph nodes of the chest as well as the eyes, skin, heart, and other organs.
The cause of Sarcoidosis is not known. Experts assume it is a mix of genetic and environmental factors, including bacteria, viruses, dust, or chemicals. When an individual contracts Sarcoidosis, their immune system overreacts to the trigger, causing inflammation, and forming granulomas.
What Are the Symptoms?
Roughly half of individuals suffering from Sarcoidosis can be asymptomatic. However, the general symptoms can include:
- Fatigue
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Fever
- A feeling of discomfort or illness
- Weight loss
- Depression
Symptoms in the lungs can range in severity from:
- Persistent dry cough
- Wheezing
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
Since Sarcoidosis symptoms can affect multiple parts of your body, one may experience joint pain, changes in vision, palpitations in the heart, stroke-like symptoms in the nervous system, and more.
How To Diagnose Sarcoidosis?
There is not one stand-alone test that can diagnose Sarcoidosis. However, other tests that examine where your Sarcodosis could be such as blood and urine, chest x-ray, CT scan, EKG or ECG, and eye exam can assist your health professional in determining if you have Sarcodosis.
Additionally, you can have a tissue biopsy to examine for granulomas that Sarcoidosis causes. This tissue can be taken from your lymph nodes, lungs, or skin.
Concerned You May Have Sarcoidosis?
With unlimited access to primary care services at an affordable price, DPC of Boca offers you personalized attention to meet your healthcare needs. We want you to be the healthiest version of yourself. Additionally, we want you to have peace of mind, so if you need further testing done to diagnose Sarcoidosis or any other condition, we provide you with referrals. Don’t take your health for granted.
Book your appointment today!
Sources:
Sarcoidosis [Internet] National Library of Medicine [updated January 16, 2024] Available from: https://medlineplus.gov/sarcoidosis.html
Understanding Sarcoidosis [Internet] Healthline [Updated on June 12, 2024] Available from: https://www.healthline.com/health/sarcoidosis
Sarcoidosis Awareness Month [Internet] Foundation for Sarcoidosis Research [Accessed March 22, 2025] Available from: https://www.stopsarcoidosis.org/standupforsarc/
Sarcoidosis Overview [Internet] Mayo Clinic [January 28, 2025] Available from: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sarcoidosis/symptoms-causes/syc-20350358
Sarcoidosis Symptoms and Diagnosis [Internet] American Lung Association [Updated November 20, 2024] Available from: https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/sarcoidosis/symptoms-diagnosis
Sarcoidosis Diagnosis [Internet] May Clinic [January 28, 2025] Available from: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sarcoidosis/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20350363