Mumbai, July 6: Cases of "bone death" or avascular necrosis have been reported among those who have recovered from COVID-19 infection in Maharashtra. Doctors now worry after mucormycosis or black fungus, "bone death" or avascular necrosis could emerge as devastating post-COVID-19 condition. Young people or those who have taken high doses of steroids as part of COVID-19 treatment are developing necrosis. Scroll down to know symptoms, causes and prevention for "bone death". After Mucormycosis, Now Bone Death Cases Reported in COVID-19 Recovered Patients.

What Is Bone Death or Avascular Necrosis? What Are Causes?

Avascular necrosis is the death of bone tissue. It occurs when there is a temporary or permanent loss of blood supply to the bone. As a result, the bone collapses and the bone tissue dies. A broken bone or dislocated joint can also interrupt the blood flow to a section of bone, causing the "bone death". In addition, this condition may emerge due to use of high-dose steroid medications and excessive alcohol intake. Lambda, New COVID-19 Variant, Detected in 29 Countries; Here's What We Know So Far About It.

What Are Symptoms of Bone Death?

In the initial stages, a person affected with avascular necrosis experiences mild joint pain. When the condition worsens, pain increases. The affected person may also witnesses limited joint motion. This condition most commonly happens in the ends of a long bone.

Prevention:

Excessive consumption of alcohol should be avoided. Smoking also makes a person vulnerable to the "death bone" condition. A high dose of steroids can cause avascular necrosis. Hence, if you have received such medication, take extra caution. Also, make sure your cholesterol level remains low. Tiny bits of fat can potentially disrupt or block the blood supply to bones.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 06, 2021 04:07 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).