Scurvy is a disease caused by a Vitamin C deficiency in a person. The reason for this deficiency can be the low intake of Vitamin C. This disease is most likely to occur in those regions that have high malnutrition rates, working in mining areas and those with malnourishment disorders. A balanced intake of vitamin C is extremely important as it is responsible for the growth and development of the human body and the healing of your skin, tissues and bones. Without treatment, this condition can cause swelling and bleeding of gums, joint pain, or even bleeding under your skin.
The symptoms of scurvy will not appear instantly, symptoms usually start a few months of not getting enough vitamin C in your diet. The first symptoms are weakness, fatigue and irritability. However, some people experience severe joint pain as well.
If these symptoms are ignored, the patients may start to develop scurvy. The most common symptoms of scurvy are:
Babies with a deficiency of vitamin C can show these symptoms. They are:
People who have a deficiency of Vitamin C for more than 3 months develop scurvy. Low intake of fresh fruits and vegetables can be a major cause of this disease. There are some conditions that require high levels of Vitamin C. Make sure to get enough Vitamin C if you are experiencing any of the following conditions:
The human body cannot make Vitamin C by itself. This means that we have to take enough Vitamin C to fulfil the needs of our body through foods, drinks and supplements rich in it. Scurvy impacts areas that do not have access to fresh food and struggle with providing enough nourishment. The risk factors of scurvy include:
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms or have the risk factors of scurvy, then consult your doctor. Your doctor will ask some dietary-related questions along with an observation of signs of scurvy.
A blood test is required to confirm the diagnosis of scurvy in which levels of Vitamin C in blood serum will be checked. Blood serum levels of Vitamin C less than 11 µmol/L indicate the development of scurvy in a patient.
Scurvy is extremely easy to treat. Fair consumption of Vitamin C can help in the treatment of scurvy and an increased intake of fruits and vegetables that are rich in it. Mild scurvy can be treated by eating at least five servings of Vitamin C-rich fruits and vegetables.
Doctors also prescribe some oral Vitamin C supplements to treat patients with severe scurvy. Consult your doctor if your symptoms do not improve, even after the dietary changes. High doses of Vitamin C can be prescribed depending on the age, sex and health condition of the patient.