7 Valley Fever Symptoms You Should Never Ignore

Valley fever, medically known as coccidioidomycosis, is a fungal infection caused by Coccidioides organisms found in the soil of certain regions, particularly in the southwestern United States and parts of Mexico and Central and South America. When disturbed, the fungal spores become airborne and can be inhaled, leading to infection. While approximately 60% of people infected experience no symptoms, others may develop mild to severe respiratory illness. Understanding the symptoms of valley fever is crucial for early detection and proper medical care.

The symptoms typically appear one to three weeks after exposure to the fungal spores. The severity can range from mild flu-like symptoms to serious complications affecting the lungs and other organs. Recognizing these warning signs can help you seek timely medical attention and prevent potential complications.

1. Persistent Fatigue and Weakness

One of the most common and earliest symptoms of valley fever is overwhelming fatigue that doesn’t improve with rest. This exhaustion can be debilitating and significantly impact daily activities.

Patients often describe feeling:

• Completely drained of energy even after a full night’s sleep
• Unable to perform routine tasks without feeling exhausted
• Muscle weakness throughout the body
• A general sense of being unwell or run down

This fatigue is not like ordinary tiredness; it’s a profound exhaustion that can last for weeks or even months. The weakness may be so severe that climbing stairs, carrying groceries, or completing work tasks becomes challenging. Many people mistake this symptom for chronic fatigue syndrome or attribute it to stress, delaying proper diagnosis and treatment.

2. Persistent Dry Cough

A dry, hacking cough is a hallmark symptom of valley fever and can be one of the most uncomfortable manifestations of the disease. This cough differs from a typical cold or flu-related cough.

Characteristics of valley fever cough include:

• Dry and non-productive (little to no mucus)
• Persistent and lasting for weeks
• May worsen at night or when lying down
• Can become painful due to constant irritation
• Sometimes progresses to producing thick, discolored phlegm

The cough occurs because the fungal infection irritates the lung tissue and airways. In some cases, the cough may be accompanied by wheezing or shortness of breath. The prolonged nature of this symptom often prompts individuals to seek medical attention, as it doesn’t respond to typical over-the-counter cough suppressants.

3. Fever and Night Sweats

Fever is a common immune response to valley fever infection, and it can vary in intensity and duration. The body elevates its temperature to fight off the fungal invaders.

Fever patterns in valley fever may include:

• Low-grade fever (100-102°F or 37.8-38.9°C) that persists for days or weeks
• Intermittent fever that comes and goes
• Accompanied by chills and sweating
• Night sweats that drench sleepwear and bedding
• Fluctuating body temperature throughout the day

Night sweats can be particularly distressing, often severe enough to require changing clothes and sheets multiple times during the night. These episodes are part of the body’s inflammatory response to the infection. The combination of fever and night sweats can lead to dehydration if fluid intake is not maintained properly.

4. Chest Pain and Breathing Difficulties

Chest pain is a significant symptom that indicates the infection is affecting the lungs and pleural space (the area between the lungs and chest wall). This symptom should never be ignored as it may signal complications.

The chest pain associated with valley fever typically presents as:

• Sharp, stabbing pain that worsens with deep breathing or coughing
• Discomfort that may be felt on one or both sides of the chest
• Pain that can radiate to the back or shoulders
• Tightness or pressure in the chest
• Difficulty taking deep breaths due to pain

Breathing difficulties may manifest as shortness of breath during normal activities or even at rest in severe cases. Some patients describe a feeling of not being able to get enough air or having to work harder to breathe. The chest pain occurs due to inflammation of the lung tissue (pneumonia) or inflammation of the lining around the lungs (pleuritis). If you experience severe chest pain or significant breathing difficulties, seek immediate medical attention.

5. Headache and Body Aches

Headaches and generalized body aches are frequent complaints among valley fever patients, often appearing early in the infection alongside other flu-like symptoms.

These symptoms typically manifest as:

• Moderate to severe headaches that may be constant or intermittent
• Dull, aching pain throughout muscles and joints
• Stiffness in the neck, shoulders, and back
• Pain that worsens with movement or activity
• General soreness similar to having the flu

The headaches can range from mild tension-type headaches to more severe migraines. Body aches affect various muscle groups and joints, making movement uncomfortable. These symptoms are part of the systemic inflammatory response as your immune system fights the fungal infection. The combination of headache and body aches can significantly impact quality of life and may interfere with sleep and daily functioning.

6. Skin Rash

A distinctive skin rash can develop in some valley fever patients, serving as an external sign of the internal infection. This symptom appears in approximately 10-20% of symptomatic cases.

The rash associated with valley fever can present in several forms:

• Red, bumpy rash resembling hives or welts
• Painful, tender red nodules, particularly on the shins (erythema nodosum)
• Small, raised pink or red spots
• Patches of discolored skin
• Rash that may be itchy or tender to touch

Erythema nodosum is particularly characteristic of valley fever and appears as painful, raised, red bumps usually on the lower legs. These nodules can be quite tender and may make walking uncomfortable. The rash typically develops a few weeks after other symptoms begin and represents an immune response to the infection. While the rash itself is not contagious, its appearance often indicates an active immune response to the valley fever infection.

7. Joint Pain and Swelling

Joint pain and swelling, medically termed arthralgia, is another significant symptom that can occur with valley fever, particularly in cases of disseminated infection where the fungus spreads beyond the lungs.

Joint-related symptoms include:

• Pain and stiffness in multiple joints, especially knees, ankles, and wrists
• Visible swelling and warmth around affected joints
• Reduced range of motion and flexibility
• Pain that worsens with movement or weight-bearing
• Morning stiffness that may improve throughout the day

The joint pain can be severe enough to interfere with walking, climbing stairs, or performing routine tasks. In some cases, the pain may migrate from one joint to another. This symptom, when occurring together with fever and rash, forms what is sometimes called “desert rheumatism,” a classic triad of valley fever symptoms. The joint inflammation is typically a reactive response to the infection rather than a direct fungal invasion of the joints, though in severe disseminated cases, the fungus can actually infect bone and joint tissue.

Main Causes of Valley Fever

Valley fever is caused by infection with Coccidioides fungi, which have unique characteristics and transmission methods:

Fungal Spores in Soil

The primary cause of valley fever is inhalation of Coccidioides immitis or Coccidioides posadasii spores. These fungi live in the soil in specific geographic regions, particularly in the southwestern United States (Arizona, California, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah), parts of Mexico, and certain areas of Central and South America. The fungi thrive in arid, alkaline soil conditions.

Environmental Disturbance

When soil containing the fungi is disturbed by activities such as construction, farming, excavation, or even strong winds and dust storms, the fungal spores become airborne. These microscopic spores can travel long distances on wind currents, significantly expanding the exposure area beyond the immediate site of disturbance.

Inhalation and Infection

Infection occurs when a person breathes in the airborne spores. Once inhaled, the spores reach the lungs where they can transform into a different form called spherules. These spherules grow and eventually rupture, releasing hundreds of endospores that can spread throughout the lungs and, in rare cases, to other parts of the body.

Risk Factors

Certain factors increase the risk of infection and severe disease:

• Living in or traveling to endemic areas, especially during dry, dusty conditions
• Occupational exposure (construction workers, agricultural workers, archaeologists, military personnel)
• Weakened immune system due to HIV/AIDS, organ transplantation, or immunosuppressive medications
• Pregnancy, particularly in the third trimester
• Certain ethnic backgrounds (African Americans, Asians, and Filipinos have higher risk of severe disease)
• Diabetes or chronic lung disease
• Age (older adults and very young children are at higher risk)

Prevention Strategies

While it’s impossible to completely eliminate the risk of valley fever in endemic areas, several strategies can significantly reduce exposure to Coccidioides spores:

Minimize Dust Exposure

• Stay indoors during dust storms and windy conditions
• Keep windows and doors closed during dusty weather
• Use air conditioning with proper filtration when possible
• Wet down soil before digging or disturbing it
• Avoid activities that disturb soil, such as digging or yard work, especially during dry periods

Protective Equipment

• Wear N95 respirator masks when working in dusty environments or disturbing soil
• Use protective clothing when engaging in high-risk activities
• Ensure proper ventilation in work areas with potential fungal exposure

Environmental Precautions

• Plant grass or other ground cover to reduce dust
• Keep areas around homes and workplaces landscaped to minimize dust
• Use water or dust suppressants at construction sites in endemic areas
• Clean air filters regularly in homes and vehicles

Personal Awareness

• Be aware of valley fever risk if you live in or travel to endemic areas
• Monitor air quality reports and limit outdoor activities on high-dust days
• Educate yourself about symptoms and seek prompt medical care if they develop
• Inform your healthcare provider if you live in or have traveled to endemic regions

High-Risk Individuals

People with weakened immune systems, pregnant women, and those with chronic health conditions should take extra precautions:

• Consult with healthcare providers about additional protective measures
• Consider relocating temporarily during high-risk periods if possible
• Maintain overall health through proper nutrition and disease management
• Discuss with doctors whether certain activities or occupations should be avoided

Frequently Asked Questions

Is valley fever contagious from person to person?

No, valley fever is not contagious and cannot spread from one person to another. The infection only occurs through inhalation of fungal spores from contaminated soil. You cannot catch valley fever from an infected person, even through close contact.

How long do valley fever symptoms last?

Most people with valley fever symptoms recover within a few weeks to six months without specific treatment. However, some individuals may experience fatigue and other symptoms for several months or longer. In severe or disseminated cases, symptoms can persist for years if not properly managed.

Can you get valley fever more than once?

It’s rare but possible to get valley fever more than once. Most people who recover from valley fever develop immunity that protects them from future infections. However, this immunity may not be complete, and reinfection can occasionally occur, particularly in individuals with compromised immune systems.

When should I see a doctor for valley fever symptoms?

You should see a doctor if you develop flu-like symptoms that last longer than a week, especially if you live in or have recently traveled to an endemic area. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe chest pain, difficulty breathing, severe headache, stiff neck, or if you have a weakened immune system and develop any symptoms.

What tests diagnose valley fever?

Valley fever is diagnosed through blood tests that detect antibodies to Coccidioides fungi, chest X-rays or CT scans to identify lung abnormalities, and sometimes sputum cultures or tissue samples. Your doctor will determine which tests are appropriate based on your symptoms and medical history.

Are certain people more likely to get severe valley fever?

Yes, certain groups are at higher risk for severe or disseminated valley fever, including people with weakened immune systems, pregnant women (especially in the third trimester), individuals with diabetes, people of African, Asian, or Filipino descent, and those with chronic lung disease. These individuals should be especially vigilant about prevention and seeking early medical care.

Can valley fever affect organs other than the lungs?

Yes, in less than 1% of cases, valley fever can disseminate (spread) beyond the lungs to other parts of the body, including the skin, bones, joints, brain, and meninges (membranes covering the brain and spinal cord). Disseminated valley fever is much more serious and requires medical care.

What is the difference between acute and chronic valley fever?

Acute valley fever is the initial infection that typically causes flu-like symptoms and usually resolves on its own within weeks to months. Chronic valley fever occurs when lung infection persists or progresses, developing into chronic pneumonia with lung cavities or nodules. Chronic cases may require medical intervention and can last for years.

References:

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – Valley Fever (Coccidioidomycosis)
• Mayo Clinic – Valley Fever
• Merck Manual – Coccidioidomycosis
• MedlinePlus – Valley Fever
• National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases – Valley Fever