Coccidiodomycosis, also known as valley fever and desert fever, is an infectious disease that is caused by fungi “Coccidioides immitis”.
The typical symptoms of valley fever include sputum production, shortness of breath, chest pain, low-grade fever, fatigue, chills, malaise, headache, night sweats and muscle pains. Most of these symptoms resolve in about three to five weeks on their own without any treatment. However, if symptoms persist, then valley fever may give rise to progressive pulmonary coccidiodomycosis that is characterized by lung volume loss, inflammation of lungs and scarring.
Desert fever is diagnosed with the microscopic examination of sputum, PCR test (to detect the genetic material of the fungus), skin tests, chest X-ray, CT scan and MRI.
Treatment options include antifungal drugs and surgical treatments (to treat pulmonary arteries, empyema and scarred tissues in lungs).
The people who are at risk of developing coccidiodomycosis include elderly, HIVers, cancer patients, residents of the endemic areas, pregnant women and individuals who do farm or construction work.
As this fungal infection mostly infects the immunosuppressed people, make sure that you regularly consume a supplement that helps maintain the health of your immune system. Natures Aid Immune Support + with Beta-Glucans is a popular brand on the market that stands tall among other competitors due to its amazing attributes. It makes use of Ester-C, Elderberry and Beta-Glucans in its formulation that help boost immune system and provide protection against a wide range of fungal as well as bacterial infections. You should take 1 tablet per day with a cold drink and food.
