• Published on: May 22, 2021
  • 3 minute read
  • By: Dr Rajan Choudhary

COVID Associated Black Fungus: Succumbing To Black Fungus !

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COVID associated Black Fungus: What you need to know

As COVID spreads across India, there has been an increase in reports of associated infection with a black fungus occurring in some patients. It affects the nose, mouth, eyes, and lungs, and can be fatal. This is an infection we need to be educated on, and early recognition of it can be life-saving. Today we will talk about Mucormycosis, the black fungus responsible for these infections, and what you should do to prevent or recognize an infection.

If you want to learn how to recognize the infection, go down to the INFECTION section of the article.

FUNGUS

When our body gets infected by a bacteria or virus, the signs and symptoms are often recognized early because bacteria and viruses are aggressive, with toxins and mechanisms designed to cause harm to our body and cause easily recognizable symptoms. Fungi on the other hand are slow-growing, and usually, our bodies can fight usually fight these infections before they become a problem. We breathe in fungal spores all the time, especially when outside, in the garden, or in fields, and they cause no harm.

Mucormycosis, the responsible fungus, is found in soil, and decaying fruits and vegetables. It can enter our body by inhalation, by eating foods infected with it, or by direct contact with an open wound, thereby entering our blood. It can be found inside the nose of healthy people, causing no problems or disease. Before the COVID pandemic, infection by mucormycosis was up to 80 times more prevalent in India than in other developed countries, though still rare.

IMMUNOSUPPRESSION

Looking at case reports of patients infected with mucormycosis shows a common theme. Immunocompromised patients are at much higher risk of infection by the fungus and are more likely to have severe disease. This includes patients with diabetes, poorly controlled diabetes, patients taking steroids, organ transplant patients (who are usually on immunosuppressive medications to prevent rejection), those with blood cancer (leukemia/lymphoma, reducing your blood immunity).

Diabetes (especially poorly controlled diabetes) is a major problem in these cases, as diabetes is fairly common in India, can lay unrecognized, and if not controlled or treated appropriately the rising blood sugar levels can damage your arteries, nerves, and significantly lower your immunity. Any infection in diabetic patients can be more difficult to treat and spread more quickly, and this is made worse by COVID-19.

COVID causes widespread inflammation throughout the body, especially the lungs, and the resulting damage causes difficulty breathing and death by respiratory failure. Steroids are currently our best way to treat COVID, by suppressing the body’s immune system and preventing lung damage. Unfortunately, this also allows mucormycosis spores inhaled by COVID patients to infect the now vulnerable, damaged airway, lungs, and sinuses, and start spreading. The body’s response to the infection is dampened by the steroids, and in those with diabetes, it is hindered further.

INFECTION

The black fungus usually spreads in the nose and sinuses of the skull, as it prefers a warm, humid environment. From here it can spread into the eyes and in rare cases the brain.

Recognize the symptoms of the fungus, and be very suspicious in patients with diabetes or those who have had high doses of steroids.

- Facial swelling on one side

- Nose or sinus congestion

- Pain in the sinuses, around the nose, and eyes

- Black mold growing around the nose or mouth

- Fever, headache

When it infects the lungs it can cause symptoms such as cough, shortness of breath, or chest pain. Unfortunately, this can be difficult to separate from symptoms of COVID infection.

If you suspect you or someone you know has these symptoms, and they have the risk factors of immunosuppression or diabetes, you should visit a doctor early. Mucormycosis has a high mortality rate, and a delay in diagnosis by even a week can double it. Your doctor will take swab samples from your nose and look for signs of the fungus under a microscope. Blood tests and scans are also helpful in identifying the fungal infection.

TREATMENT AND PREVENTION

Treatment of mucormycosis requires IV antifungals such as Amphotericin B and may involve surgery to remove the infected areas and prevent further spread. This can include surgery in and around the nose, sinuses, and in rare cases even the eyes. This all depends on the extent of the fungal infection.

Prevention is key in these cases. Simple measures such as wearing a mask to reduce inhalation of spores can minimize infection, especially in the vulnerable, though it may not prevent it if they already had spores present in their nose and sinuses. Glucose tests to look for diabetes, and strict control of diabetes will improve your chances significantly. Keeping your blood sugar levels within the normal range is very important, so if you are diabetic now is the time to stick to your diabetic diet and medications.

Finally, we need to be careful when using immunosuppressive medications to treat COVID, and determining which patients should receive steroids (dexamethasone, prednisolone) and other drugs such as tocilizumab. If you are young and healthy, or you have a milder infection of COVID-19, it may be better for you to not take steroids early. Those with more serious COVID-19 infections may need steroids to survive, and in these cases frequent checks for mucormycosis infection is advisable.

The rise in this rare fungal disease in patients with COVID-19 presents a problem, as we do not have much literature to base our recommendations on, the disease is slow-growing and can be difficult to treat. But as always, understanding the disease process for black fungus and knowing its symptoms is important, as is informing your family and friends about this disease.

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diabetes 2 symptoms

Understanding Diabetes Type 2 Symptoms: A Simple Guide

Diabetes is a common health condition that affects millions of people around the world. Among its different types, Type 2 diabetes is the most widespread. It often develops slowly and can go unnoticed for years. That's why it’s important to understand the symptoms of diabetes type 2, so you can take timely action and protect your health.

In this blog, we will explain what Type 2 diabetes is, the signs to watch out for, and when to see a doctor.

 

What is Type 2 Diabetes?

Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition where your body either doesn't produce enough insulin or can’t use it properly. Insulin is a hormone that helps your body control blood sugar (glucose) levels. Without enough insulin, sugar builds up in your bloodstream instead of being used for energy.

This buildup of sugar can damage your organs over time, including your heart, kidneys, eyes, and nerves. That’s why early detection and treatment are very important.

 

Who is at Risk?

Type 2 diabetes can affect anyone, but some people are more likely to get it. You may have a higher risk if you:

  • Are overweight or obese
     

  • Have a family history of diabetes
     

  • Are over the age of 45
     

  • Live a sedentary (inactive) lifestyle
     

  • Have high blood pressure or cholesterol
     

  • Had gestational diabetes during pregnancy
     

  • Belong to certain ethnic groups (such as South Asian, African-Caribbean, or Hispanic)
     

Knowing your risk factors can help you stay alert and get tested early.

 

Common Diabetes Type 2 Symptoms

The symptoms of Type 2 diabetes often develop slowly, and many people may not notice them right away. Some people don’t experience any symptoms at all until complications arise. That’s why it’s sometimes called a "silent" disease.

Here are the most common diabetes 2 symptoms to look out for:

1. Frequent Urination

If you find yourself needing to urinate more often than usual, especially at night, it could be a sign of high blood sugar. Your body tries to get rid of the excess glucose through urine.

2. Excessive Thirst

Frequent urination can make you lose a lot of water, leading to dehydration. This makes you feel unusually thirsty all the time.

3. Increased Hunger

Despite eating enough, people with Type 2 diabetes may feel hungry more often. This is because the body isn’t using the glucose in the blood properly for energy.

4. Fatigue and Tiredness

When your body can’t use sugar for fuel, it leads to low energy levels. This can make you feel tired, weak, or sluggish even after a good night's sleep.

5. Blurred Vision

High blood sugar levels can affect the tiny blood vessels in your eyes, leading to blurry vision. If untreated, it can even cause permanent eye damage.

6. Slow Healing Wounds

Cuts, bruises, or infections may take longer to heal if your blood sugar is high. This happens because diabetes affects blood circulation and the immune system.

7. Tingling or Numbness

Many people with diabetes experience tingling, pain, or numbness in their hands or feet. This is known as diabetic neuropathy and is caused by nerve damage due to high blood sugar.

8. Unexplained Weight Loss

If you're losing weight without trying, it could be a warning sign. When your body can’t use sugar properly, it starts burning fat and muscle for energy.

9. Skin Problems

Dark patches on the skin, especially around the neck or armpits (a condition called acanthosis nigricans), can be an early sign of insulin resistance.

 

When Should You See a Doctor?

If you notice any of the above symptoms, it’s important to see a healthcare provider for a simple blood sugar test. Early diagnosis can help you manage the condition better and prevent serious complications.

Even if you feel fine, it's a good idea to get regular health check-ups, especially if you’re at higher risk.

 

How is Type 2 Diabetes Diagnosed?

Doctors use the following tests to diagnose Type 2 diabetes:

  • Fasting blood sugar test: Measures blood sugar after not eating for 8 hours
     

  • HbA1c test: Shows your average blood sugar levels over the last 2-3 months
     

  • Oral glucose tolerance test: Measures how your body handles sugar after drinking a sweet drink
     

  • Random blood sugar test: Can be done at any time of the day
     

Your doctor may repeat tests or use more than one type to confirm the diagnosis.

 

Can Type 2 Diabetes be Managed?

Yes! Type 2 diabetes can be managed with lifestyle changes, medications, and regular monitoring. Some people are even able to reverse it through weight loss and healthy habits.

Here’s how you can manage it:

  • Eat a balanced diet: Include whole grains, vegetables, lean proteins, and fruits
     

  • Exercise regularly: Aim for at least 30 minutes of activity most days of the week
     

  • Lose excess weight: Even a small amount of weight loss can improve your blood sugar
     

  • Take medications if needed: Your doctor may prescribe tablets or insulin
     

  • Monitor blood sugar: Keep track of your glucose levels as advised by your doctor
     

  • Avoid smoking and alcohol: These can worsen diabetes and its complications
     

 

Final Thoughts

Type 2 diabetes is a serious condition, but it can be controlled and even reversed with the right steps. Understanding the early warning signs and diabetes 2 symptoms can make a big difference in your health journey.

If you or someone you love is experiencing these symptoms, don’t wait—talk to a doctor today and get tested. Early action can help you lead a healthier, longer life.

 

Take control of your health today—recognize the diabetes 2 symptoms early and consult your doctor for a proper diagnosis and care plan.

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