Valley Fever, also known as coccidioidomycosis, is a fungal infection most commonly identified in the southwestern United States, specifically California, Arizona, Nevada, New Mexico, and Utah. About 20,000 people a year catch Valley Fever, which is typically caused by the inhalation of fungal spores.
In this article, we will list and discuss the symptoms as well as provide a detailed overview of the fungal infection. Early recognition and diagnosis are imperative when it comes to Valley Fever, as these limit the chance the disease could spread to the rest of the body or have long-lasting effects.
What is Valley Fever?
Valley Fever is a fungal infection, typically caused by a person inhaling spores from two coccidioides fungi species: Coccidioides immitis and Coccidioides posadasii. This is usually caused by events like construction, dust storms, wind, or farming.
“Sometimes these spores get in the air, get in the lungs, and start to cause disease because the body attempts to get rid of them,” said Michael LeNoir, MD, an allergist and pediatrician in California. “Usually it stays in the lungs, but the body’s reaction gives you the symptoms.”
The most common regions affected by Valley Fever are states in the southwestern United States, including California, Arizona, Nevada, New Mexico, and Utah. These fungi can be found in parts of Mexico as well as Central and South America.
Valley Fever was named after the San Joaquin Valley, California, where the infection was first discovered and is most likely to be found.
Common Valley Fever Symptoms
Typical Valley Fever symptoms include flu-like signs, including:
- Fatigue
- Cough
- Fever
- Muscle aches
- Headache
- Night sweats
Individuals can experience Valley Fever respiratory symptoms, including shortness of breath and chest pain. Occasionally, some affected individuals may experience a skin rash.
Skin-Related Valley Fever Symptoms
Besides causing flu-like symptoms, Valley Fever can also manifest on the skin. This could include a rash, specifically erythema nodosum (EN) or erythema multiforme (EM). While EN involves tender, red bumps underneath the skin’s surface, EM is characterized by target-like lesions with a central dark area. Along with rashes, individuals may also experience joint pain, sometimes referred to as “desert rheumatism.”
Valley Fever can also cause nodules, known as coccidioidal nodules, which are patches of infection in the lungs, usually caused by pneumonia.
Severe or Disseminated Valley Fever Symptoms
Disseminated Valley Fever, also known as disseminated coccidioidomycosis, is when the fungal infection has spread from the lungs to other parts of the body. This is a rare instance that only happens with about 1% of Valley Fever cases.
The fungi can spread to areas such as the skin, bones, liver, brain, heart, and meninges, which are membranes that protect the brain and spinal cord.
Symptoms of disseminated Valley Fever include:
- Meningitis
- Bone infections
- Joint infections
- Lung nodules and cavities
- Lesions in bones such as the skull or spine
Valley Fever Symptoms in Specific Populations
Individuals with weakened immune systems, as well as those who are older, diabetic, or pregnant, are at a higher risk of developing severe complications from Valley Fever.
Specific ethnicities, including those of African American or Filipino descent, are more susceptible to Valley Fever complications.
According to Dr. LeNoir, farmers are also at high risk due to the proximity of crops and dry areas.
In order to properly treat coccidioidomycosis, it is important that individuals of these groups stay alert for early diagnosis and treatment to best avoid further infection.
Diagnosis of Valley Fever
In order to diagnose coccidioidomycosis, medical providers will most likely request these diagnostic methods.
- Blood test or coccidioidal serology (this will detect the amount of antibodies developed in the blood against the Coccidioides fungus)
- Sputum culture (sputum, or phlegm, will be examined for the fungus)
- Chest X-ray or CT scan (these will assess the level of lung involvement and can detect pneumonia)
- Biopsy (in severe cases, can help pinpoint the infected tissue)
When to Seek Medical Attention
If you or a loved one is experiencing persistent or severe symptoms, it is important to seek medical help immediately. Untreated coccidioidomycosis can cause severe complications, like the fungus spreading to the brain or other organs
If you are suffering from a persistent fever, cough, rash, or shortness of breath, it is time to see a doctor.
Treatment and Prevention Overview
If you require treatment for coccidioidomycosis, there are several options available to you. While most infections resolve on their own, some individuals may need:
- Antifungal medication (which can be oral or intravenous)
- Supportive care (over-the-counter fever and pain relievers, rest, and monitoring)
In order to prevent this type of infection, make sure to limit your exposure to risk factors such as dust and dirt, specifically in the high-risk areas.
“It’s really hard,” said Dr. LeNoir. “I think the only real way is to mask up.”
Wearing a mask is a primary preventative option. As Dr. LeNoir says, there is no immunization for coccidioidomycosis.
If you are experiencing any symptoms of the infection and think you might be affected, it’s important to seek out proper medical management.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long do Valley Fever symptoms last?
The length of the symptoms depends on the severity of the infection. Symptoms of mild cases will dissipate within a few weeks to a few months. Moderate case symptoms, which may require antifungal treatment, can last between three to six months.
Can you get valley fever more than once?
Yes, but it is rare. While most people who contract Valley Fever from Coccidioides immitis are then immune to the infection, some may still develop it again over time. Reinfection is typically less severe.
Is Valley Fever contagious?
No, Valley Fever is not contagious.
What are the long-term effects of Valley Fever?
Most individuals recover from Valley Fever without any long-term issues. However, some can experience health problems such as persistent respiratory symptoms, chronic pulmonary coccidioidomycosis, or disseminated Valley Fever.
How common is Valley Fever?
While the real number is likely to be higher due to cases that go unreported or undiagnosed, about 10,000 to 20,000 cases of Valley Fever occur in the U.S. every year.
Final Thoughts
If you live in one of the high-risk areas and are experiencing common symptoms such as fatigue, coughing, night sweats, or a red rash, it is paramount that you seek out medical attention.
If you are unsure of your symptoms, consult with your healthcare provider for accurate information, early diagnosis, and treatment.
