Sarcoidosis Care

An inflammatory condition that affects multiple organs, including the heart.
featured sarcoidosis care Joburg South Arrhythmia Centre Sarcoidosis Care

Sarcoidosis is an inflammatory condition that affects multiple organs, including the heart. When the heart is involved, it can lead to arrhythmias, heart failure, or other serious complications. If you have been diagnosed with sarcoidosis or are experiencing unexplained heart symptoms, specialised care can help the condition and protect your heart health.

What is sarcoidosis care?

Sarcoidosis care focuses on diagnosing, monitoring, and managing the effects of this condition on the heart. Sarcoidosis causes small clusters of inflammatory cells, known as granulomas, to form in different parts of the body. With these granulomas develop in the heart, they can interfere with the electrical signals that control your heartbeat. 

Cardiac sarcoidosis can cause irregular heart rhythms, blockages in electrical conduction, and weakened heart function. Early detection is vital, as some cases progress silently before symptoms appear.

What are the symptoms of cardiac sarcoidosis?

Heart-related symptoms of sarcoidosis can vary. Some people have no symptoms, while others experience:

  • Abnormal heartbeats or palpitations
  • Fainting or dizziness
  • Shortness of breath
  • Swelling in the legs or fluid retention
  • Chest pain or discomfort
  • Fatigue

If sarcoidosis affects your heart, timely evaluation and treatment can help prevent complications.

How is cardiac sarcoidosis diagnosed?

Since symptoms can mimic other heart conditions, specialised tests are often needed to confirm the diagnosis. These may include:

  • Electrocardiogram (ECG): To look for abnormal heart rhythms.
  • Holter monitoring: To track irregular heartbeats over time.
  • Echocardiogram: To evaluate heart structure and function.
  • Cardiac MRI or PET scan: To detect inflammation and granulomas (which is a mass of tissue formed in response to inflammation or a foreign substance)
  • Blood tests: To check for signs of inflammation.

If you already have sarcoidosis affecting another organ, your doctor might recommend screening for possible heart involvement.

What treatment options are available?

Treatment depends on how sarcoidosis affects your heart. Options may include:

Medications

Anti-inflammatory drugs, such as corticosteroids, reduce inflammation.

Heart Rhythm Management

Medications or implantable devices, such as pacemakers or defibrillators, to prevent dangerous arrhythmias.

Lifestyle Adjustments

Monitoring exercise levels and avoiding triggers that may worsen symptoms.

Regular Follow-Ups

Ongoing monitoring to track changes in heart function.

Because sarcoidosis can change over time, consistent care is important to manage the condition effectively.

When should I seek specialised care?

If you have sarcoidosis and heart-related symptoms, it is important to have your heart assessed. Even if you do not have noticeable symptoms, routine monitoring can help identify early signs of cardiac involvement before they become serious.

Are you ready to take control of your heart health?

Sarcoidosis can unpredictably affect the heart, but early detection and proper management can make a difference. If you are concerned about how sarcoidosis may impact your heart, schedule a consultation to explore your options. Understanding your condition is the first step toward protecting your health.

Our Services

Contact

Netcare Alberton Hospital, 1 Netcare
Street, Newmarket Park, 1449

011 742 3598

    Contact us by filling out the form below.