Symptoms of Sarcoidosis
Sarcoidosis is a chronic inflammatory disease that can affect multiple organs in the body. It is characterized by the formation of small clusters of inflammatory cells called granulomas. These granulomas can develop in various organs, including the lungs, skin, eyes, lymph nodes, liver, and heart. The symptoms of sarcoidosis can vary widely depending on the organs involved and the severity of the disease.
Pulmonary Symptoms
The lungs are the most commonly affected organ in sarcoidosis. Pulmonary symptoms may include:
- Cough: A persistent dry cough is a common symptom.
- Shortness of breath: Difficulty breathing or a feeling of breathlessness, especially during physical activity.
- Chest pain: Discomfort or pain in the chest, often worsened by deep breathing or coughing.
- Wheezing: A high-pitched whistling sound when breathing.
Skin Symptoms
Sarcoidosis can cause various skin manifestations. Skin symptoms may include:
- Rash: Red or purple raised patches on the skin, often on the face, arms, or legs.
- Nodules: Small, firm bumps under the skin.
- Erythema nodosum: Painful red nodules, usually on the shins.
- Lupus pernio: Persistent, raised, and discolored lesions on the nose, cheeks, ears, or lips.
Eye Symptoms
Sarcoidosis can affect the eyes, leading to various ocular symptoms. Eye symptoms may include:
- Blurred vision: Vision may become blurry or hazy.
- Eye pain: Discomfort or pain in the eyes.
- Redness: The eyes may appear red or bloodshot.
- Sensitivity to light: Increased sensitivity to bright lights.
- Dryness: Dryness or a gritty sensation in the eyes.
Lymph Node Symptoms
Enlarged lymph nodes are a common feature of sarcoidosis. Lymph node symptoms may include:
- Swollen lymph nodes: Lumps or swelling in the neck, armpits, or groin.
- Tenderness: The affected lymph nodes may be tender to the touch.
- Generalized fatigue: Feeling tired or fatigued due to the body's immune response.
Other Symptoms
In addition to the specific organ-related symptoms mentioned above, sarcoidosis can also cause general symptoms that may affect multiple systems in the body. These symptoms may include:
- Fever: Low-grade fever that persists for an extended period.
- Weight loss: Unexplained weight loss.
- Night sweats: Excessive sweating during sleep.
- Fatigue: Persistent tiredness or lack of energy.
- Joint pain: Pain, swelling, or stiffness in the joints.
- Muscle aches: Generalized muscle pain or discomfort.
- Cardiac symptoms: Rarely, sarcoidosis can affect the heart, leading to symptoms such as palpitations, chest pain, or shortness of breath.
If you experience any of these symptoms or suspect you may have sarcoidosis, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.