Valley Fever Care at Arizona Pulmonary Specialists

What is Valley Fever?

Valley Fever is caused by the Coccidioides fungus, which is found in the soil of the southwestern United States, particularly in Arizona, California, Nevada, and New Mexico. The fungus becomes airborne when the soil is disturbed by wind, construction, or farming activities, and inhalation of fungal spores can lead to infection.

Most people who inhale the spores do not develop symptoms because their immune system fights off the infection. However, in some cases, Valley Fever can cause pneumonia-like symptoms, and in severe cases, the infection can spread beyond the lungs to the skin, bones, joints, or brain (a condition known as disseminated Valley Fever).

Certain groups are at higher risk for severe illness, including:

• People with weakened immune systems (due to conditions like HIV, cancer, or organ transplants)
• Pregnant women (especially in the third trimester)
• People of African, Filipino, or Native American descent (due to genetic susceptibility)
• Individuals exposed to high amounts of dust (such as construction workers, farmers, or outdoor enthusiasts)

Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are key to preventing complications.

Symptoms of Valley Fever

Valley Fever is known as a “great mimicker” because its symptoms can resemble many other respiratory infections, including pneumonia and even lung cancer. Common symptoms of Valley Fever are:

• Flu-like symptoms – Fever, chills, and muscle aches
• Cough – Can persist for weeks or months
• Fatigue – Extreme tiredness, even after mild illness
• Shortness of breath – More common in severe cases
• Night sweats – Occurs in some individuals
• Chest pain – May feel sharp or aching
• Headache – Can be persistent
• Joint pain – Resembles arthritis in some cases
• Rash – Red, painful bumps on the legs or torso

If the infection spreads beyond the lungs, it can cause:

• Meningitis (brain infection) – Severe headaches, confusion, seizures
• Bone and joint infections – Pain, swelling, difficulty moving
• Skin lesions – Non-healing wounds or ulcerations
• Liver, kidney, or heart involvement – Rare but potentially life-threatening

Since Valley Fever is not contagious, it cannot be spread from person to person.

Diagnosing Valley Fever

Valley Fever can be difficult to diagnose, as its symptoms closely resemble other respiratory infections like pneumonia, influenza, or even COVID-19. Our team at Arizona Pulmonary Specialists uses advanced diagnostic tools to confirm the infection:

• Blood tests – Detect antibodies or antigens related to Valley Fever; however, you can have the disease and still test negative
• Bronchoscopy or needle biopsy – The most accurate way to make a certain diagnosis
• Chest X-ray or CT scan – Identifies lung abnormalities caused by the infection
• Culture or fungal staining – Examines lung secretions for fungal spores
• Spinal tap (lumbar puncture) – If meningitis is suspected

Since blood tests are not always 100% accurate, we often repeat testing over time to monitor for changes.

Treatment of Valley Fever

Treatment approaches for Valley Fever vary depending on severity of the infection.

Mild Cases

Most healthy individuals with mild Valley Fever recover without medication. The body naturally clears the infection, and treatment focuses on symptom management, such as rest, hydration, and pain relievers.

Moderate to Severe Cases

If symptoms persist, or if you are at high risk for complications, your doctor may prescribe antifungal medications for 1-2 weeks. Fluconazole or itraconazole are the first-line oral antifungal medications, while amphotericin B may be considered for severe or life-threatening infections.

Disseminated Valley Fever

Severe infection that has spread beyond the lungs requires more intense treatment, which may include:

• Long-term antifungal therapy (1-2 years, or indefinitely in some cases)
• Meningitis treatment requires lifelong antifungal medication
• Surgery may be needed for severe lung or bone infections

Since antifungal medications can interact with other drugs, it is essential to discuss all medications with your doctor.

Why Choose Arizona Pulmonary Specialists?

• Extensive experience – Decades of expertise in treating Valley Fever and other fungal lung infections
• Advanced diagnostic tools – State-of-the-art imaging, blood tests, and biopsy techniques for accurate diagnosis
• Personalized treatment plans – Tailored to each patient’s severity, immune status, and health history
• Patient-centered care – Compassionate, individualized support to help you recover safely and effectively

Physicians Specializing in Valley Fever

Our team of pulmonologists, infectious disease specialists, nurses, and respiratory therapists is dedicated to providing comprehensive and compassionate care for patients with Valley Fever.