About this topic
Coccidioidomycosis is an infection of the lungs. It is also called Valley Fever. This infection is caused by a germ called a fungus. This kind of germ can live in hot, cold, and dry places. It spreads by breathing the germ spores in the air. The spores come from dirt being moved around. You cannot catch this illness from some other person. Most cases are mild and go away without treatment. Some cases will need treatment. Very few cause serious problems or death. This most often happens if you have some other serious illness. ‚
What are the causes?
It is caused by a fungus called Coccidioides. ‚
What can make this more likely to happen?
You are at a higher risk if you work outside and your job is in a dusty place. Some examples are people who work in construction, building roads, or on farms. Military who are on field maneuvers are also at a higher risk. Where you live may also put you at a greater risk. Places where it is dry and dusty like parts of California, New Mexico, or Arizona have more spores. So do parts of Mexico and South America. Having a serious illness like high blood sugar or HIV may raise your chance for getting this disease. ‚
What are the main signs?
You may not have any signs with this illness. Or, you may only have mild signs like a fever, cough, and headache. You may also have muscle aches and joint pain. Sometimes, there is a rash on your upper body, arms, and legs. If you are more seriously ill, you may also have lung infection and infections in the fluid around your brain and spinal cord. Serious illnesses may also have infection in the bones and joints. ‚
How does the doctor diagnose this health problem?
Your doctor will ask about your history and do an exam. Your doctor may order tests like: ‚
- Blood test
- Chest x-ray
- Sputum culture
How does the doctor treat this health problem?
Sometimes, no treatment is needed. Your signs may go away on their own. Other times, the doctor will give you drugs to stop a more serious infection from developing. ‚
What drugs may be needed?
The doctor may order drugs to: ‚
- Treat fungal infection
- Help with pain and swelling
- Relieve fever
- Treat cough
Will there be any other care needed?
Avoid smoking. Stay away from other people who are smoking. ‚
What can be done to prevent this health problem?
- Wear a face mask to avoid inhaling the dust.
- Stay inside your home during a dust storm.
- Wet the soil before you start digging.
- If you are likely to get an infection, keep your doors and windows tightly closed, especially during summer.
Where can I learn more?
American Lung Association ‚
http://www.lung.org/lung-disease/coccidiodomycosis/understanding-coccidioidomycosis.html ‚
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ‚
http://www.cdc.gov/fungal/coccidioidomycosis/treatment.html ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚