Black fungus: Dentist shares simple oral tips to prevent the fungal infection
The SARS-CoV-2 virus has given birth to several other new diseases. One of the rapidly spreading infection post-COVID recoveries is black fungus. Also called Mucormycosis, black fungus is, as the name suggests is a fungal disease that is commonly being observed in patients who were given steroids for a long time, who have been hospitalised for a long time, were on oxygen support or ventilator, poor hospital hygiene or who have been taking medication for other illness such as diabetes.
If not treated on time, the black fungus infection can turn fatal.
The COVID medications can leave the body weak and low immunity. They can also escalate the blood sugar levels in both diabetics and non-diabetic COVID-19 patients, which is said to be the main reason for the fungus to multiply.
But by following some simple dental hygiene rules, one can reduce their chances of catching most of the viral and fungal infections including black fungus, according to a dentist.
What causes black fungus?
The Ministry of Health has confirmed that the infection is being detected among people who are recovering or have recovered from COVID-19.
People undergoing oxygen therapy in ICU, where a humidifier is used are more at risk due to exposure to moisture.
Thus, it is recommended to use sterile water for oxygen therapy.
A weak immunity system, overuse of steroids, voriconazole therapy and uncontrolled diabetes also put people at risk of black fungus infection.
Black fungus symptoms
The prime symptom of the black fungus includes discolouration of the oral tissues, tongue, gums, stuffy nose, severe pain, swelling of face, heaviness below the eyes, discomfort, fever and headache.
Here is how you can reduce your chances of getting the black fungus infection. Top 3 oral tips to prevent black fungus
Maintain oral hygiene
After COVID recovery, the intake of steroids and other medication enables the bacteria or fungus in the mouth to grow and cause a problem in the sinus, lungs and even brain. Taking care of your mouth by brushing twice/thrice a day and taking oral cleanups can help exceedingly.
Oral rinsing
Maintaining good oral hygiene post-COVID-19 recovery is a must for patients to protect themselves from the effect of the disease.
Patients are advised to change their toothbrush once they test negative and keep rinsing their mouth regularly.
Disinfecting toothbrush and tongue cleaner
A COVID recovered patient should not keep their brush in the same holder where others do. It's advised to clean the brush and tongue cleaner regularly using an antiseptic mouthwash.