3 Ways to Live with Sarcoidosis

Posted on

Sarcoidosis is a disease that impacts various organs, including the lungs. The disease can cause a range of symptoms, including painful joints, enlarged glands around the lungs, and hearing loss. If you suffer from sarcoidosis, it is imperative that you take steps to keep your health on the right track daily. Despite the possible symptoms for sarcoidosis, it is possible to live well with the condition. Here are some tips to help you do so. 

Keep Up with Routine Monitoring

In some people, sarcoidosis can sometimes occur and disappear without causing any symptoms. Others could face the symptoms for years. If you are having symptoms, it is imperative that your condition is regularly monitored by your doctor.  

There are many tests and procedures associated with managing sarcoidosis that must be performed at regular intervals to ensure that the condition is not progressing. For instance, a pulmonary-function test can help the doctor determine whether or not the condition has affected your lungs and to what extent.  

If you must miss an appointment with a member of your healthcare team, reschedule for as soon as possible.  

Ask for a Referral to a Respiratory Therapist

Everyone who has sarcoidosis does not experience lung problems, but if you do, it is imperative that you receive treatment as soon as possible. As the glands around the lungs swell, you can experience trouble breathing. Breathing problems could be more serious than just being winded. Your life could be at risk.  

To avoid serious consequences, get an assessment from a respiratory therapist, such as one from Corner Home Medical. He or she can assess your condition and determine whether additional treatment is needed. If treatment is recommended, it is important that you follow the plan outlined.  

For instance, if you are required to use supplemental oxygen, do so. The therapist can help determine the oxygen needed and how often you need to use it.  

Talk to a Mental-Health Professional

It is not uncommon for people dealing with serious health conditions to develop psychiatric problems, such as depression. Depression can not only impact your mental health but also negatively impact your physical health.  

If you begin to experience symptoms of depression, seek help. Talk to your treating physician first. Your symptoms might be the result of a side effect with your medication. A change to the dosage or switching to a new medication could potentially resolve the problem. If not, your doctor can refer you to a mental-health professional.


Share