What is Mucormycosis – Symptoms, Precautions and More
Newly declared as an epidemic of notifiable disease in some states of India – “Black Fungus” is a deadly disease, specially came in notice with its rising incidences in post covid-19 era.
What is Black Fungus?
Black fungus is basically a misnomer used for MUCORMYCOSIS which is caused by a rare fungus- mucoromycetes. These molds are ubiquitous but mainly affects people with lower immunity.
WARNING SIGNS
FACE
- Swelling of face(inner side, one sided)
- Facial pain
- Swelling over cheeks
- Skin lesions
EYES
- Pain and redness around eyes
- Blurring of vision
- Restrictions of eyes movement
- Protrusion of eyeball
NOSE AND MOUTH
- Discharge from nose
- Nasal bleed
- Nasal block
- Blood vomit
- Teeth pain
- Loosening of tooth
- Jaw involvement
- Coughing
OTHERS
- Headache
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Fever
PREDISPOSING FACTORS
- Uncontrolled diabetes Mellitus
- Immunosuppression by steroids
- Prolong ICU stay.
- Co-morbidities – post transplant/malignancy
- On Chemotherapy
DO’s
- Self monitoring of sugar levels and consults with a doctor if uncontrolled
- Maintain self hygiene by brushing twice a day, use betadine/saline to wash the mouth.
- Always wear the mask even if you had covid before or had two doses of vaccine.
- Always wear well covered clothes when stepping outside.
- Use gloves while coming in contact of soil.
- Use of sterile water for humidifiers in oxygen therapy.
DON’Ts
- Do not self medicate
- Do not use pre-used mask or over washed masks
- Do not use steroid for longer duration if not needed(strictly under doctor advice)
- Do not miss warning signs and do not confuse symptoms with other infection and take proper help.
MAJOR POINTS TO REMEMBER
- Control diabetes
- Use of steroids judiciously
- No anti-fungal for prophylaxis
- Maintain self-hygiene
- If you suspect a symptom, consult a physician/ENT specialist/ophthalmologist.
