What is Black Fungus?

Black fungus, also known as ‘ Mucormycosis ’, is a mould that can cause severe infections, particularly in individuals with weakened immune systems or comorbidities like diabetes.

This infection is common among COVID-19 patients due to the use of steroids in their treatment, which reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract. People with cancer or poor kidney function are also at risk.

Symptoms of Black Fungus include:

• Facial swelling
• Intense headaches
• Nasal blockage
• Black lesions in the nasal area or upper mouth region
• Chest discomfort
• Shortness of breath
• Difficulty in chewing or opening the mouth

What is Yellow Fungus?

Yellow Fungus is unique as it exhibits internal symptoms prior to physical ones. Poor hygiene, contaminated food, and unclean medical equipment are common sources of this infection.

Yellow fungus shares some similarities with Black fungus, including the fact that steroid and antibacterial medication use, as well as comorbidities like diabetes, can lead to infection.

Initially, the symptoms are internal, leading to pus leakage and, in some cases, organ failure. As the infection progresses, patients may experience:

• Fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• Redness and sunken eyes
• Development of white fungus

Understanding White Fungus and its Symptoms

White fungus, like its black and yellow counterparts, affects individuals with diabetes or cancer, especially if they are using steroids. It distinguishes itself by affecting not only the nail bed and skin but also the stomach, kidney, brain, and reproductive organs.

Common symptoms include:

• Whitening of the tongue
• Cough
• Fever
• Diarrhoea
• Dark spots on the lungs
• Low oxygen levels

Comparing Black, White, and Yellow Fungus

Key Points about Black, White, and Yellow Fungus

• Black fungus or Mucormycosis can affect the face, nose, eye orbit, and even the brain. In some cases, it can cause vision loss and spread to the lungs.
• White fungus is considered more dangerous than black fungus as it severely affects the lungs and can cause damage to other body parts. It can be lethal and may affect the brain, respiratory system, and digestive tract.
• COVID-19 patients, diabetics, and individuals on long-term steroid use are more likely to get infected with black fungus. According to some experts, a prolonged ICU stay can also increase the risk.
• People with low immunity are more likely to get infected with white fungus. Living in unsanitary environments that harbour these moulds increases the risk of infection.

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