WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW:
Sarcoidosis is a condition in which inflammatory cells collect in tissues and organs. These cells form granulomas (lumps) in the lungs, skin, lymph nodes, or eyes.
- Cytotoxic medicines: These decrease redness, pain, and swelling, and help slow down your immune system. .
- Steroids: This medicine helps decrease inflammation.
- NSAIDs: These medicines decrease swelling and pain. You can buy NSAIDs without a doctor's order. Ask your primary healthcare provider which medicine is right for you and how much to take. Take as directed. NSAIDs can cause stomach bleeding or kidney problems if not taken correctly.
- Acetaminophen: This medicine decreases pain and fever. You can buy acetaminophen without a doctor's order. Ask how much to take and how often to take it. Follow directions. Acetaminophen can cause liver damage if not taken correctly.
- Take your medicine as directed. Call your healthcare provider if you think your medicine is not helping or if you have side effects. Tell him if you are allergic to any medicine. Keep a list of the medicines, vitamins, and herbs you take. Include the amounts, and when and why you take them. Bring the list or the pill bottles to follow-up visits. Carry your medicine list with you in case of an emergency.
Follow up with your primary healthcare provider or specialist as directed:
You may need to return to have regular checkups and eye exams. Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.
- Eat a variety of healthy foods: Healthy foods include fruits, vegetables, whole-grain breads, low-fat dairy products, beans, lean meats, and fish. Ask if you need to be on a special diet.
- Get plenty of exercise: Ask your primary healthcare provider or specialist about the best exercise plan for you. Exercise may help decrease fatigue and improve your symptoms of sarcoidosis.
- Do not smoke: If you smoke, it is never too late to quit. Smoking increases your risk of further lung problems. Ask your primary care provider or specialist for information if you need help quitting.
Contact your primary healthcare provider or specialist if:
- You have a fever.
- You have a severe headache and pain in your neck.
- You have chills, a cough, or feel weak and achy.
- You have pain, redness, and swelling in your muscles and joints.
- Your skin is itchy, swollen, or has a rash.
- You have questions about your condition or care.
Return to the emergency department if:
- You cannot feel your arms or legs, or they become weak.
- You have seizures.
- You have sudden trouble breathing.
- You have trouble thinking and remembering things.
- You have severe chest pain.
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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
Learn more about Sarcoidosis (Aftercare Instructions)
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