SARCOIDOSIS : Causes , Treatments , Symptoms , Stages
SARCOIDOSIS
Sarcoidosis is an inflammatory disaes that affects multiple organs in the body , but mostly the lungs and lymph glands .In people with sarcoidosis , abnormal masses or nodules consisting of inflamed tissues form in certain organs of the body .
SYMPTOMS OF SARCOIDOSIS
The symptoms of sarcoidosis can vary greatly , depending on which organs are involved . Most patients initially complain of a persistent dry cough , fatigue , and shortness of breath . Here some of the other symptoms they may include :
1. Tender reddish bumps or patches on the skin .
2. Red and teary eyes or blurred vision .
3. Swollen and painful joints .
4. Enlarged and tender lymph glands in the neck, armpits , and groin .
5. Hoarse voice .
6. Pain in the hands , feet , or other bony areas due to the formation of cysts in bones .
7. Kidney stone formation .
8. Nervous system effects , including hearing loss, meningitis , seizures, or psychiatric disorders.
CAUSES OF SARCOIDOSIS
The exact cause of sarcoidosis it may be a type of autoimmune disease associated with an abnormal immune response , but triggers this response is uncertain . Sarcoidosis spreads from one part of the body to another is still being studied.
Sarcoidosis is a result of an abnormal immune system , the body starts to attack its tissues and organs . The resulting swelling then causes granulomas to develop in the organs .
TREATMENTS OF SARCOIDOSIS
There is no cure for sarcoidosis , but the disease may get on its over time .many people with sarcoidosis have mild symptoms and not require any treatments . Treatments , needed , is given to reduce symptoms and to maintain the proper working order of the affected organs .
Treatments generally fall into 2 categories - maintenace of good health and drugs treatments. good health practices include :
- Getting regular checkup with your healthcare provider
- Eating a well balanced diet and variety fresh fruits and vegetables
- Drinking enough fluids every day
- Getting 6 - 8 hours of sleep each night
- Exercising regularly and managing your weight
- Quitting smoking
4 STAGES OF SARCOIDOSIS
STAGE 1 - SWOLLEN LYMPH NODES [ LYMPHADENOPATHY ]
Glands swelling commonly refers to enlargement of the lymph glands , also known as lymph nodes . Lymph nodes are small rounded or bean shaped masses of lymphatic tissue surrounded by a capsule of connective tissue . Symptoms of swollen lymph nodes include :
- Localized pain
- Swelling
- Tenderness , and
- Warmth in the involved area
STAGE 2 - Enlarged lymph nodes with shadows on chest X -ray due to lung infiltrates or granulomas .
STAGE 3 - Chest X -ray shows lung infiltrates as shadows , which is a progressive condition.
STAGE 4 - [ ENDSTAGE ]: Pulmonary fibrosis or scar like tissues found on the chest X - ray. Chest X - ray usually demonstrates a honeycomb like appearance in the lunges . Due to this scar - like tissues or honeycomb like appearance patients may have difficulty breathing .
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