diagnose because of the myriad of ways it can show up in the body – from skin rashes to blurry vision to respiratory problems – and some patients never even have external symptoms.
In addition, as mentioned above, sarcoidosis is a rare disease – estimated to affect 200,000 Americans (i.e. < 0.1% of us) making leading to a lack of knowledge among some physicians. Lung doctors tend to have the most experience with sarcoidosis.
4. HOW CAN THOSE WITH SARCOIDOSIS MANAGE THE DISEASE?
Sarcoidosis is often treated with the help of a varied team of healthcare professionals. Because the disease can affect so many organ systems, you may work with many healthcare providers who specialize in the treatment of the lungs, heart, brain, kidneys, liver, eyes and skin.
Support can come in many forms and include oxygen therapy for patients with advanced disease who have low oxygen levels in the blood. For such sarcoidosis patients, supplemental oxygen can be helpful to decrease your shortness of breath during everyday activities and feel less fatigued and help keep you active.
Pulmonary rehabilitation programs can be helpful for those who have experienced muscular deconditioning after a period of significant exercise limitation due to illness. It is important to maintain a regular exercise regimen and a healthy diet.
Jasmine Browley holds an MA in journalism from Columbia College Chicago, and has contributed to Ebony, Jet and MADE Magazine among others. So, clearly, she knows some stuff. Follow her digital journey @JasmineBrowley.