After Black Fungus or Mucormycosis got declared as an epidemic by the Government in some of the Indian states, an infection called White Fungus has arisen as a new monster.
Just like Black Fungus, White Fungus was also not a fungal infection that was unknown to us. However, the only difference is the sudden increase in the number of infected people. Earlier, there were only a few people who got infected from White Fungus, but now with the surge in Covid 19 cases, both the black and white fungal infections have gained momentum.
The scenario as of now is the black fungus has been declared as an epidemic and white fungus is also expediting its speed. Another point of concern that’s hitched to these fungal infections is the scarcity of anti-fungal medications and the high mortality rate. Although this is scary in itself but can be prevented through certain precautions and can be cured with effective treatment. So, if you want to know more about fungal infection, prevention, causes, and treatment, then dive into this blog now!
White Fungus: What is it?
White Fungus is also known as Candidiasis is a sort of negative fungal infection that directly infects the blood, heart, brain, eyes, and other parts of the body. As per the Centre for Diseases Control and Prevention (CDC), Candidiasis is caused by the yeast Candida, also called “thrush” or “oropharyngeal candidiasis or Candida Esophagitis”. Some of the widespread species of Candida that commonly cause infection in people are Candida Albicans, C. Auris, C. Glabrata, C. Parapsilosis, C. Tropicalis, and C. Krusei.
Invasive Candidiasis generally attacks people with a weak immune system or who endures health conditions like HIV, Cancer, Organ Transplants, or other serious health conditions. It is carried from one place to another by the means of dust, hay, and other small particles.
Where does it reside?
Candida normally remains stuck to the skin and inside the mouth, throat, gut, and vagina without rendering any harm to the body. It causes infection if it multiplies exponentially or gets deep into the body.
What are the symptoms of White Fungus?
Symptoms of Candidiasis of Mouth and Throat
Candidiasis may start from the mouth and throat and can also show certain symptoms in Esophagus. Some of the signs that reveal that the patient may be infected with White Fungus include:
- White spots on the inner cheeks, tongue, and throat
- Pain while eating or swallowing
- Cracking and redness at the corners of the mouth
- Redness or soreness
- Cotton-like feeling in the mouth
- Loss of taste
Symptoms of Invasive Candidiasis
Invasive Candidiasis mainly affects people with low immunity or who are already sick from other medical conditions. This infection gradually starts and eventually grows to the heart, brain, eyes, bones, etc. The symptoms of white fungus are quite similar to COVID-19 symptoms that include:
- Fevers
- Chills
- Chest pain
- Cough
- Breathlessness
White Fungus: Who is in Danger?
The people that have undergone the following are at the utmost risk of developing white fungus:
- Have just come out of ICU after a prolonged treatment
- Have low immunity
- Have endured surgery recently
- Have received plenty of antibiotics
- Are on dialysis
- Are diabetic
- Have received plenty of steroids
- Suffering from cancer
Impacts of White Fungus on Human Body
Not spreading the fear though, but white fungus is said to be even dangerous than black fungus. This is said so, because this infection may directly strike the brain, respiratory system, and digestive, or even all of them together.
White Fungus Treatment
Since this was a rare disease till now, hence there’s a lack of medication for white fungus. Depending on the age, immunity, and symptoms, anti-fungal treatment is provided to patients that last long for about 2 weeks. If the infection is high and is in heart, or central nervous system then the treatment is likely to take more time.
White Fungus Prevention
As per the Centre for Diseases Control and Prevention, one should perform the following measures to prevent invasive candidiasis:
- Properly follow hand hygiene
- Upkeep the oral hygiene
- Avoid going in the dust or hay prone areas
FINAL WORDS
With the outspread of Covid 19, Black Fungus, White Fungus, and now Yellow fungus also, India’s Healthcare System has reached a turbulent stage. In this lethal situation, our safety lies in our hands. One should strictly follow the entire preventive measures to keep themselves and their families safe from these infections.
If you or your loved ones need at-home care or nursing services, then look no further than Unique Healthcare. We are a healthcare service provider who will offer you the care you deserve in times of emergency.