Black Fungus : Symptoms & Treatment
by googlerecipe.co July 25, 2024 · Science Explore
What is Black Fungus (Mucormycosis)?
Black Fungus
Black fungus, also known as mucormycosis, is a rare infection that’s become more common during the COVID-19 pandemic. In India, there are now around 9,000 cases, compared to the usual 20 cases per year.
Why is it happening?
The coronavirus and its treatment, especially steroids, weaken the immune system. People who stay in hospitals for a long time, particularly those needing oxygen or ventilators, are at higher risk for this fungus.
What causes it?
The fungus thrives in environments with low oxygen, high iron, and poor hygiene. It’s caused by fungi from the Mucorales group and usually affects the nose and mouth. It can stay in the sinuses or spread to the eyes and brain.
How does it spread?
Mucormycosis does not spread directly between people. It’s usually contracted when people with weakened immune systems breathe in the spores from the fungus, which are found in soil, plants, rotting fruits and vegetables, and dusty areas.
Who is at risk?
People most at risk include:
- Those with weak immune systems, like people with diabetes.
- Those undergoing cancer treatments like chemotherapy.
- People are using excessive steroids or immunosuppressant drugs.
- COVID-19 patients who need oxygen or ventilators.
Symptoms
Symptoms include black or discolored areas around the nose, nosebleeds, blocked nose, facial pain, dental pain, headaches, breathing problems, and coughing. It often affects the sinuses and can spread to the eyes, mouth, and brain.
Diagnosis
Doctors use nasal endoscopy, biopsy, and MRI to diagnose mucormycosis. X-rays can also help by showing changes in the sinuses, like fluid levels and bone damage.
Prognosis
The disease has a high death rate of about 54%, depending on where it affects the body and the patient’s condition. Early diagnosis and treatment improve chances of recovery.
Prevention
To avoid this disease:
- Wear a mask to protect against both the fungus spores and COVID-19.
- Control your blood sugar if you have diabetes.
- High-risk patients and COVID-19 survivors should be monitored closely.
Treatment
Mucormycosis is treated with antifungal medicines given intravenously and then orally. If treatment is delayed, surgery may be necessary to remove affected body parts, like parts of the palate or eye. CT scans and MRIs help determine the infection’s extent and guide surgery.
Conclusion
Black fungus (mucormycosis) is a serious, rare infection that has become more common during the COVID-19 pandemic, especially among people with weakened immune systems. It primarily affects the nose and mouth but can spread to other areas like the eyes and brain.
The infection is caused by fungi that thrive in environments with poor hygiene and low oxygen levels. It is not spread directly between people but can be contracted from inhaling spores.
Early detection and treatment are crucial for better outcomes. To prevent infection, wearing masks, controlling blood sugar levels, and closely monitoring high-risk patients are important steps. If treated promptly with antifungal medications, and sometimes surgery, patients have a better chance of recovery.
FAQs about Black fungus and related fungal infections:
1. What is a black fungus?
- Black fungus, or Mucormycosis, is a serious fungal infection caused by fungi from the Mucorales family. The majority of those affected have compromised immune systems.
2. How is black fungus contracted?
- The fungus can enter the body through wounds, damaged food, or the air (if breathed). It most commonly infects the lungs and sinuses.
3. What are the symptoms of black fungus?
- Depending on the location of the infection, symptoms might vary but may include fever, coughing, chest discomfort, shortness of breath, migraines, nasal congestion, toothaches, and black sores on the skin.
4. How is black fungus diagnosed?
- A biopsy to evaluate tissue samples and imaging tests such as CT or X-rays to check for lung infections are usually part of the diagnosis process.
5. What is the treatment for black fungus?
- Treatment usually involves antifungal medications. Surgery could be necessary in extreme situations to remove the affected tissue.
6. How can black fungus be prevented?
- Preventive measures include maintaining good hygiene, controlling diabetes, using steroids only as prescribed, and avoiding overuse of antibiotics and steam inhalation.
7. Do yellow and white fungi have the same characteristics as black fungi?
- No, they are different types of fungal infections with varying symptoms and causes, but they all arise from weakened immune systems and similar fungal pathogens.
8. Are these fungal infections contagious?
- No, fungus illnesses such as yellow, white, and black fungus are not communicable. They do not spread from person to person, like COVID-19.
9. Who is more susceptible to infections with fungi?
- Individuals with compromised immune systems, such those with diabetes, cancer, or taking steroid therapy, are more vulnerable.
10. What should I do if I suspect I have a fungal infection?
- See a doctor right once to receive an appropriate diagnosis and course of treatment. For fungal infections to be properly managed, early intervention is essential.
