What Are The Symptoms of Black Fungus?
September 1, 2023 | by Sravani Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Black fungus, also known as mucormycosis, is a rare but serious fungal infection that primarily affects people with weakened immune systems or underlying health conditions. It has gained attention during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly in individuals who have recovered from COVID-19. The symptoms of black fungus can vary depending on the site of infection, but common symptoms include:
- Sinusitis or Facial Pain:
- One of the earliest signs is often sinusitis, which can cause pain and swelling around the eyes and nose.
- Facial pain and headache, especially on one side of the face, may be present.
- Nasal Congestion or Discharge:
- Persistent nasal congestion or discharge, often black or bloody in color, may occur.
- Swelling:
- Facial swelling, particularly around the eyes and cheeks, can develop.
- Black Lesions in the Mouth:
- Ulcers or black lesions in the mouth or on the palate can appear.
- Toothache:
- Pain or loosening of teeth may occur.
- Blurred Vision or Eye Redness:
- Invasive mucormycosis can spread to the eye, causing vision problems and redness.
- Chest Pain and Respiratory Symptoms:
- If the infection spreads to the lungs, it can lead to symptoms like chest pain, coughing, and difficulty breathing.
- Gastrointestinal Symptoms:
- Gastrointestinal mucormycosis can cause abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
- Skin Lesions:
- Skin involvement can result in black, necrotic (dead) patches on the skin.
- Fever:
- A fever, sometimes with chills, may be present.
It’s important to note that mucormycosis is a rapidly progressing infection, and early diagnosis and treatment are crucial. If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, especially after recovering from COVID-19 or if you have underlying health conditions that weaken the immune system, it’s important to seek medical attention promptly. Treatment typically involves antifungal medications and, in severe cases, surgical removal of infected tissue.
Preventive measures, such as good hygiene, control of underlying health conditions, and the judicious use of steroids and other immunosuppressive medications, can help reduce the risk of developing black fungus.