Patient Resources

Sarcoidosis Frequently Asked Questions  

I think I might have sarcoidosis. What should I do? 

Because the signs and symptoms of sarcoidosis can be similar to those of other diseases, it can be hard to diagnosis sarcoidosis. But the team at the Sarcoidosis Program at BMC are experts in diagnosing sarcoidosis.

Our program can offer a comprehensive plan of care through a team of specialists who excel at treating the various organ systems that sarcoidosis can affect. Because the disease may disappear and reappear over a lifetime, the Sarcoidosis Program at BMC is committed to long-term, quality care and follow-up.

Is there a cure for sarcoidosis? 

There is no cure for sarcoidosis, but the disease may get better on its own over time or with medication.

Is sarcoidosis cancer? 

No, sarcoidosis is not a form of cancer. But it can be mistaken for cancer until it's properly diagnosed.

Is sarcoidosis contagious? 

No, it is not contagious. No one can catch the disease from you.

Is sarcoidosis a genetic disease? Will my children get it? 

Within some families, having a close relative with sarcoidosis has been shown to increase the chance of getting the disease. Multiple genes have been identified that affect the chances of getting sarcoidosis, and it is the combination of these genes that come together to influence the likelihood of getting sarcoidosis. Some of your genes will be passed to children, which may account for the elevated risk within families. However, there is currently no screening test to identify who is at risk, and the likelihood of a family member getting the disease is still so low that screening for sarcoidosis is not currently recommended.

Do I need to change my diet in any way? 

Not unless sarcoidosis is causing high blood calcium levels. About five percent of people with sarcoidosis do have high blood calcium levels. If you do, reducing the amount of calcium rich foods (such as dairy products, oranges, broccoli, canned salmon, and collard greens) you eat, vitamins containing calcium, and vitamin D becomes necessary. You'll also need to avoid getting too much sun exposure.