You were relatively healthy, until you ended up in the emergency room of Florida Hospital Memorial Medical Center with shortness of breath and an unexplained rash. The doctors ran a series of tests, and you were diagnosed with sarcoidosis. Until that day, you had never heard of the condition.

You are not alone. Many people don’t know about this disease, which is why Congress declared April as National Sarcoidosis Awareness Month in 2008—to bring attention to this rare condition. Sarcoidosis produces small inflammatory cells on different body parts, often the lungs, skin, heart, and eyes. Knowing the signs and symptoms of this potentially dangerous disease can allow you to receive the help you need as soon as possible.

Could You Have Sarcoidosis?

The symptoms of sarcoidosis vary, often developing gradually and lasting for years. Some patients have symptoms that come about quickly and disappear just as fast. Basic symptoms of the condition are weight loss, fatigue, fever, and swollen lymph nodes. The following are some other symptoms:

  • Eye symptoms. Sarcoidosis can affect the eye without causing many symptoms. But if you experience severe redness, pain, blurred vision, or sensitivity to light, see your doctor immediately.
  • Skin symptoms. About 25 percent of those who have sarcoidosis develop skin problems. Rashes that develop tender purple or red bumps on the shin and ankle area are common with the condition. Patients can also develop disfiguring skin sores on the nose, cheeks, and ears; darkening or lightening of the skin; and growths just under the skin, particularly around scars and tattoos.
  • Lung symptoms. Patients with sarcoidosis often experience lung problems, including shortness of breath, a persistent dry cough, chest pain, and wheezing.

Social Security May Help

Difficulty breathing and suffering with constant pain can make working almost impossible. Fortunately, Social Security benefits may be available to you. The attorneys of Johnson and Gilbert will determine if you can receive the Social Security to provide for you and your family. Contact us today through our online form or by calling 800.556.8890 to speak with our legal team about your situation. 

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