Articles

Sarcoidosis-the immune system attack

by Carson Martin Medical Consultannt
Immune system plays a vital role in protecting the body from foreign invaders like bacteria, viruses, dust and some chemicals. However, in sarcoidosis, some immune cells get themselves arranged in the form of Granulomas, typically in lungs, lymph nodes, skin and eyes. These Granulomas interfere with functioning of the organ. The exact cause of this disease is not yet known. Some people have genetic predisposition to this disease.

In some cases, it is believed to be triggered by specific bacteria or viruses. It may also be caused by immune system’s response to dust and chemicals inhaled from air. Symptoms of sarcoidosis depend on which part of the body is affected. In some cases, disease progresses gradually causing prolonged symptoms. In other cases, both the disease and symptoms appear quickly as well as go away immediately. If they last for prolonged period, they may cause severe organ damage.

General symptoms: - These symptoms are commonly observed with the onset of this disease.

1.Swollen lymph nodes

 2.Fever

3.Fatigue

4.Sudden weight loss

Lung symptoms: - Almost everyone who has sarcoidosis develops lung problems.

1.Wheezing

2.Shortness of breath

3.Dry cough

4.Chest pain

Skin problems: - 25% of people affected by sarcoidosis develop skin symptoms.

1.Rash: - Red or reddish purple rash may appear on ankles. It is tender in appearance.

2.Lesions: - Skin worsening scars may appear on cheeks, nose and ears.

3.Skin color changes: - Some parts of skin may get unusually darker or lighter.

4.Skin nodules: - Sudden growths can appear inside the skin.

Eye symptoms: - Sarcoidosis affects eyes without causing any symptoms. Hence eye checkup is necessary.

1.Eye pain and redness

2.Blurriness in vision

3.Sensitivity to light

Risk factors:-

1.Age: - This disease usually occurs between the ages 20 to 40.

2.Sex: - Women are slightly more prone to this disease than men.

3.Race: - African Americans have more susceptibility to this disease than white Americans.

4.Family History: - This disease is more likely to be inherited. Family history of this disease plays a major role.

Complications:- In most cases, sarcoidosis resolves on its own and causes no additional damage. However, if the damage becomes chronic, it is more likely to cause complications.

1.Lung complications: - If left untreated, permanent damage to the tissue between air sacs in the lung can occur. The person may experience difficulty breathing.

2.Eye inflammation: - In some cases, this disease can cause cataracts and glaucoma. Blindness on account of eye inflammation is also possible.

3.Abnormal heartbeats: - Granuloma formation in heart can interfere with electrical signals that regulate the heartbeat. In rare instances, irregular heartbeat can cause death.

4.Kidney failure: - Sarcoidosis may affect calcium metabolism in the body which amy lead to kidney failure.

5.Nervous system inflammation: - Nervous system inflammation is caused when Granulomas get formed in the brain and spinal cord. Inflammation of facial nerves may cause facial paralysis.

Carson Martin is the author of this site, He is working as a Free Lance Editor for various online health pharmacies like Acedrugstore. He is committed to provide information about Generic Viagra Online, Avanafil, Zydena, Forzest, Abortion Pills Online, Misoprostol, Weight Loss, Antiviral and many more medicines.

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About Carson Martin Freshman   Medical Consultannt

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Joined APSense since, September 6th, 2011, From Richmond, United States.

Created on Dec 31st 1969 18:00. Viewed 0 times.

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