Treatment for sarcoidosis has been a matter of controversy for decades. Is it possible that science made zero progress with this disease for such a long time. Well, by the end of this article we will look into some exciting news in the field.
Sarcoidosis is an autoimmune inflammatory disease characterized by granulomas (small rounded outgrowths made up of blood vessels, cells and connective tissues) that can produce many different symptoms. It is generally a chronic disease, lasting for several years or a lifetime.
This article will look into the standard treatment for sarcoidosis and then into some exciting news in the field of alternative treatment options.
Since there haven’t been any major breakthroughs in research, the treatment that the modern medicine uses has not changed much for a very long time.
Treatment for sarcoidosis – Standard options
Being an autoimmune disease, the treatment of sarcoidosis is aimed at suppressing the immune system, relieving the inflammation and the symptoms.
In most of the cases, the doctors will use corticosteroids to in the treatment for sarcoidosis. Although this treatment relieves some of the symptoms, it can be harmful having in mind all the different side effects of steroids can have. The most commonly used drug is an oral corticosteroid called Prednisone. The dosage is usually aggressive at the beginning and is reduced as the symptoms fade.
Also, in skin sarcoidosis, topical corticosteroid creams are often used to fight the rashes.
Treatment for sarcoidosis – Other treatment options in modern medicine
Since some patients are sensitive to steroids or the side effects outweigh the benefits, there are some substitute drugs that are used. These include: Colchicine (commonly used to treat gout), Cyclophosphamide or chlorambucil (in severe stages) and Methotrexate or azathioprine (otherwise used in arthritis).
Treatment for sarcoidosis – Alternative treatment options
- The Ayurvedic treatment (Indian traditional medicine) is well known for the fact that it offers several treatment options for sarcoidosis. The treatment is aimed at reducing the fibrosis and balancing the immune system.
- Melatonin is a hormone that our body naturally produces to regulate sleep. There have been some studies that indicate it can be helpful in treating sarcoidosis.
- Herbs that are commonly used in the treatment of the condition are Echinacea and Ginseng.
Treatment for sarcoidosis – Exciting news in sarcoidosis causes research
Treatment for sarcoidosis is still a subject of controversy. The reason for this lies in the fact that the underlying causes are vague and mysterious. But, some recent developments offer a great deal of hope to those that suffer from the disease. A holistic treatment plan, the Aden protocol, has been reported to have great results in treating the condition.
