Black fungus early symptoms: Recovering from COVID-19? Watch out for these signs of mucormycosis

A lot of increasing fungal infections, including black, white and the more recently found yellow fungus have all been tied to COVID-19 cases. The increasing proportion of cases have also forced many COVID patients to approach hospitals yet again.

While there's no direct link as to what ties mucormycosis to COVID-19 cases, and neither is it a contagious infection like coronavirus, the rising cases have forced many to believe there might be a twin crisis India may be facing. The infection is yet another reason why COVID-19 patients should be cautious during their recovery.

There could be a lot many factors that can increase one's susceptibility to contracting the infection.

With COVID-19 cases, it has been observed that patients who had prolonged ICU stay, put on invasive oxygen therapy, prescribed excessive steroids that suppress immunity, or self-medicated themselves suffered from grave risks. A prior history of uncontrolled diabetes (wherein blood sugar levels exceed 500) can also expose patients to severe dangers.

While mucormycosis cases were also observed during the first wave of the pandemic and even before, though sparingly, the severity fueled by the mutant virus during the second wave, and indiscriminate use of steroids have added to woes.

A recent statement let out by AIIMS chief and director, Dr Randeep Guleria also mentions that COVID-19 patients have the highest risk of developing mucormycosis, or primarily black fungus, within 6 weeks of infection. Therefore, it is very important to remain cautious and not take recovery lightly.

Fungal infections of this manner, including white and black fungus, can prove to be potentially lethal for people with low immunity or suffering from pre-existing comorbidities. Frail immunity could make it easier for the pathogen to enter the body and wreak havoc. Hence, recognizing the symptoms early on is the only way to fight the disease well. Here are some symptoms doctors want to warn patients of:

Pressing, persistent headaches could be one of the earliest signs of inflammation and infection caused by the fungus since it starts to attack the sinus passage and the brain.

Experts have warned that black fungus infection can cause distinct physical symptoms. One-sided swelling, localised pain, heaviness in the bottom half of the face can also seldom act as primary markers.

One should also be on the lookout for unusual lesions, redness which could progress to necrosis-like symptoms.

One of the distinct features of the black fungus infection is facial deformity. The formation of black crusts around the nose, scabs, discolouration in the face, droopy eyes could all be signs that the infection is spreading. Seek help at the earliest.

(Image taken from PTI)

The fungal infection starts spreading along the sinus passage and nasal cavities, and in severe cases, attacks even the lungs. Mild respiratory symptoms, such as nasal blockage accompanied by thrusting should be symptoms to watch out for.

In some cases, the infection can progress rapidly and lead to facial disfiguration. Some patients have also reported loosening of teeth as their primary symptom. Some, can also experience problems with their jaw and require surgical invasion.