Valley
Valley Fever
Valley Fever (val-lee fee-ver, from the English valley and fever, related to the disease's common occurrence in certain valley regions) is a fungal infection caused by Coccidioides organisms. The disease can cause mild to severe lung problems and can also affect other parts of the body.
Symptoms
The symptoms of Valley Fever can vary greatly, but often include fatigue, cough, fever, shortness of breath, headache, night sweats, muscle aches, joint pain, and rash on upper body or legs. In severe cases, the disease can cause pneumonia, meningitis, or other serious health problems.
Causes
Valley Fever is caused by the Coccidioides fungi, which are found in soil and dust in certain parts of the U.S., particularly the southwestern states, and parts of Mexico and Central and South America. People can get infected by inhaling the fungal spores from the air, especially after a dust storm or other disturbance of the soil.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of Valley Fever typically involves a combination of a physical examination, medical history, and laboratory tests. These tests may include a skin test, blood test, or a sample of tissue, blood, or body fluid to check for the presence of Coccidioides organisms.
Treatment
Treatment for Valley Fever depends on the severity of the symptoms. In many cases, the disease resolves on its own without treatment. However, in severe or prolonged cases, antifungal medications may be prescribed.
Prevention
Prevention strategies for Valley Fever include avoiding activities that stir up dust in areas where the Coccidioides fungus is common, and wearing a mask in dusty outdoor environments.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Valley
- Wikipedia's article - Valley
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