Free Brochure: Pulmonary Hypertension & Sarcoidosis

Sarcoidosis is an inflammatory disease that can affect many different organs in the body. The exact cause remains a mystery to doctors and researchers. The disease is seen more frequently among African American women. The vast majority of the time sarcoidosis causes problems in the lungs, leading to shortness of breath with activity. In sarcoidosis-associated pulmonary hypertension (SAPH), increased pressure in the lungs can lead to weakening and ultimately failure of the right side of the heart.

To determine if a patient with sarcoidosis has developed SAPH, or to determine the most likely cause, a doctor will likely order pulmonary function tests, a six-minute walk test, blood work, a chest X-ray or chest CT scan, an echocardiogram and a right heart catheterization, which is a definitive test to diagnose SAPH. Exercise and a low sodium diet can help SAPH patients. In addition, patients should be evaluated for low oxygen levels when they exercise or sleep.

Download the Pulmonary Hypertension Association (PHA)’s free patient brochure to learn more about PH risks and treatment options.

This information is part of the PHA Associated Diseases Outreach and Engagement program, supported by Janssen Pharmaceuticals.