Sarcoidosis is an inflammatory disease that may affect many different parts of the body. Small round spots, called granulomas, form in various organs. The spots hinder normal functioning of those organs.

The lungs are the most commonly affected organs. Granulomas in the lung leave less space for the air exchange that needs to take place. This can cause the lungs to stiffen. Other commonly affected organs are the skin, eyes, liver and lymph nodes. In rare instances, the brain may be affected.

Antecedents, triggers and inflammatory mediators
Scientists do not know what causes sarcoidosis; it seems to be related to the malfunctioning of the immune system. The disease may possibly be triggered by an infection or exposure to a toxin in the environment, especially airborne toxins.

It also seems to cluster in certain ethnic groups and regions around the industrialized world. Some people may be more susceptible to sarcoidosis, especially women of childbearing age of African-American, Northern European, Scandinavian and Irish descent.

Symptoms
Symptoms vary and may include coughing, shortness of breath, rash (may or may not be raised), pain or irritation of eyes, night sweats, swollen lymph nodes, pain, swelling and stiffness in the joints. They can occur in different parts of the body, depending on where the granulomas form.

Most symptoms develop in the lungs, skin, eyes and liver. Multiple body systems may also be affected. Symptoms may come and go. This disease is often acute, but in some patients it is chronic, waxing and waning.

Diagnosis
The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam. There is no specific lab test that confirms a diagnosis of sarcoidosis. Instead, the diagnosis is made by noting a cluster of symptoms and a number of medical tests that are usually positive in patients with this condition.

In some cases there may not be any symptoms. The disease may sometimes be suspected based on the appearance of a routine x-ray. A blood test may show increased calcium levels, which can occur with sarcoidosis and a urine test may show elevated levels of calcium in the urine.

Treatment
Treatment aims to ease symptoms and minimize permanent problems. Treatment may include:

• Monitoring for symptoms and complications of sarcoidosis
• Medication – usually anti-inflammatory medications (both steroid and non-steroidal)
• Eye drops may be used for mild eye problems
• Pulmonary rehabilitation programs may help improve lung function

Self-care to help minimize your symptoms includes following these guidelines:

• If you smoke, quit
• Avoid exposure to dust and chemicals
• To prevent infection, wash your hands frequently

Nutrients and nurturing

Stress is a major trigger for autoimmune conditions, including sarcoidosis. As you remove toxic chemicals from your environment, give consideration to toxic levels of stress as well. Remember, the four common causes of all states of immune system imbalance are trauma (injury), toxins, deficiency and stress

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