4 Ways to Treat Coccidioidomycosis

1. Do Nothing

Although coccidioidomycosis can present severe symptoms, it usually doesn't require medication or a special procedure to cure. Doctors often recommend treating the fungal infection as you would the flu--with extended sleep and liquids. Continual bed rest is recommended, but if you must return to work, avoid doing physical labor and spend your time off at home in bed.

2. Take an Antifungal Drug

Coccidioidomycosis, also known as "valley fever," may cause pneumonia. If the condition doesn't abate with extended rest, your doctor will prescribe an antifungal drug. The most common drug is fluconazole, but your prescription label might read ketoconazole, itraconazole or amphotericin, depending on any secondary infection you may have contracted.

3. Start a Medication Regimen

If your valley fever has disseminated in your body, you must take antifungal drugs for a long period. Antifungal medicines can treat localized infections, but they don't work if the disease has spread to organs or soft tissue. Even infections in one spot within your bones or joints can be hard to treat. Your doctor may prescribe a lifetime regimen of drugs to keep you healthy.

4. Prepare Yourself for Another Infection

If you're like most people, your first case of coccidioidomycosis will be your last. Doctors say most people who are infected by the fungi become immune to them. However, the disease can return in some people who have weakened immune systems. Your doctor will not know if you're at risk to contract valley fever again, so keep a close eye on your health after you get better to reduce the risk of getting sick.