• ABOUT JAN
• FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
• TRAINING
• HOT TOPICS
• NEWS

JAN en Español

Print this Page

Sarcoidosis (SAR-coy-DOH-sis) is an 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. Some people, however, may have a type that only lasts a few months.

Some people may have no symptoms; others may have symptoms that include: skin, lung, and eye problems; arthritis; myositis; fever; fatigue; and weight loss.

Accommodation ideas for individuals with sarcoidosis:

• Fatigue: Possible solutions include a reduced work schedule, periodic rest breaks, a transfer to a less physically demanding job, flexible use of leave time, reducing or eliminating physical exertion and workplace stress, work from home, implementing ergonomic workstation design, and providing a scooter or other mobility aid if walking cannot be reduced.
• Respiratory Impairment: Individuals with sarcoidosis may experience respiratory limitations. An individual may benefit from a clean and healthy work environment; air purification; the conditioning, heating, dehumidifying, or adding of moisture to the air; additional rest breaks for the individual to step out for fresh air or take medication; a smoke and fragrance-free work environment; an alternative work arrangement such as work from home; alternative work arrangements when construction is taking place; alternative pest management practices; alternative cleaning products; and a flexible leave policy.

Organizations

Source: Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders: DSM-IV, 4th Edition. American Psychiatric Association, Washington, DC, 1994.