Relief From Sarcoidosis Ear Pain

Sarcoidosis is a disease that is defined by the buildup of small deposits of inflamed cells. It can occur anywhere in the body but most commonly is seen in the eyes, lymph nodes, flesh and lungs. Though the cause is not known, it is believed that sarcoidosis stems from an abnormality in the immune system. Because symptoms vary from person to person, sarcoidosis can manifest in different ways. Common symptoms include fatigue, ear pain, coughing and red bumps on the skin.

Treatment Options

• The best way to treat ear pain, and other symptoms of sarcoidosis, is to treat the disease itself. However, in my cases the symptoms of the disease are mild and will likely resolve on their own. If you are diagnosed with sarcoidosis and the symptoms go away, it is important that your doctor monitors your health to make sure the inflammation does not worsen. In the event that sarcoidosis is in your nervous system, heart or kidneys, your doctor may recommend treatment so that it does not damage your body.

Corticosteroids

• If your doctor decides to treat your sarcoidosis, he will likely prescribe a drug called prednisone, which is a corticosteroid. Corticosteroids are very potent drugs that work to reduce inflammation by stimulating the effects of the hormones your adrenal glands produce. According to the Mayo Clinic, there is some debate over how long you should use the drugs. Some doctors believe that you should take them at a low dose for as long as a few years because sarcoidosis will return when use is discontinued. However, long-term use of prednisone can cause many complications such as high blood pressure, cataracts, weight gain, diabetes and osteoporosis. The drug should, however, make your sarcoidosis symptoms, including ear pain, go away.

Other Options

• Some people cannot tolerate prednisone and need another option. To treat the sarcoidosis, your doctor will look for a way to suppress your immune system, since inflammation is its natural reaction against disease. Your doctor may recommend drugs such as Imuran or Plaquenil, which are helpful but also come with a lot of side effects. It is best for you to talk to your doctor about the risks of treating or not treating your sarcoidosis. Based on the pattern of the disease and your general health, you both will decide the best course of action for you.