Mucormycosis, also known as Black Fungus, is caused by a group of molds called Mucormycetes. It is very important to identify signs and symptoms of Black Fungus infection because if may turn dangerous if left untreated. Also we should know the Do’s and Don’ts for COVID patients.
Dental Care Centre
While the cases of COVID-19 are rising rapidly, the B-1617 variant of Corona virus is affecting patients with Black Fungus infection. These mucormycetes live throughout the environment and mainly affect people who have health problems or those who take medicines which body’s ability to fight germs.
SYMPTOMS OF BLACK FUNGUS-
1.Facial Deformity
2.Loss of vision or pain in eyes
- Head ache
- Altered mental state, confusion
- Facial pain
- Swelling in cheeks and eyes
- Nasal Congestion
- Black crusts in the nose
- Tooth ache
- Loosening of teeth
Do’s and Don’ts for Black Fungus
- Do not ignore the symptoms of Black Fungus. It can be very dangerous if it reaches the brain
- Control Hyperglycemia (High blood sugar levels)
- Use steroids judiciously (correct timing, correct dosage)
- Use antibiotics/antifungal medicines judiciously
- Do not consider all the cases of blocked nose as cases of Bacterial sinusitis
- Do not lose crucial time in initiating treatment for Black Fungus.
People with Diabetes, those on steroids and humidified oxygen for a long time, COVID patients with co-morbidities are at the highest risk. Other people with high risks involve people on Chemotherapy and those on long terms of immunosuppressive drugs.
A common question is that those who have taken COVID-19 vaccine, will they survive Black Fungus? There is not direct relation between vaccine and Black Fungus. However, if one has taken vaccine, they will have mild COVID-19 symptoms and will not require steroids. Hence, they are unlikely to have Black Fungus infection.
