Scurvy is a deficiency disease caused by a deficiency of vitamin C in the body. Throughout history, this disease has affected sailors, explorers, and populations with limited access to fresh fruits and vegetables. Knowing the symptoms, causes and treatment of scurvy is essential to prevent and treat this condition appropriately.
Symptoms of Scurvy
The Scurvy symptoms can vary in severity, but generally include the following:
1. Fatigue and Weakness
One of the first signs of scurvy is extreme fatigue and muscle weakness. Affected people may feel tired even after short periods of physical activity.
2. Bleeding Gums
One of the classic symptoms of scurvy is gums that bleed easily. This is due to the fragility of blood vessels caused by vitamin C deficiency.
3. Dermatological Problems
The skin of people with scurvy can become rough and dry, and ecchymoses (bruises) can easily appear due to capillary fragility.
4. Joint Pain
Scurvy can cause pain and inflammation in the joints, making movement difficult and causing discomfort in daily activities.
Causes of Scurvy
The Scurvy is caused by lack of adequate intake of vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid. This vitamin is essential for the synthesis of collagen, a structural protein necessary for the integrity of connective tissues in the body.
1. Diet Poor in Vitamin C
A diet deficient in fresh fruits and vegetables is the main cause of scurvy. Vitamin C is found in foods such as citrus fruits, strawberries, kiwis, peppers and broccoli, among others. Lack of variety in your diet can lead to insufficient intake of this essential vitamin.
2. Inability to Synthesize Vitamin C
Some people may have difficulty synthesizing vitamin C adequately, which increases their risk of scurvy. This may be due to underlying medical conditions or genetic factors that affect the absorption and metabolism of this vitamin.
Treatment of Scurvy
The treatment of scurvy is based on supplementation with vitamin C and in improving the intake of foods rich in this vitamin. In severe cases, intravenous administration of vitamin C may be necessary to restore adequate levels in the body.
1. Vitamin C Supplements
Vitamin C supplements are available in the form of tablets, capsules, or liquid solutions. These help restore optimal levels of vitamin C in the body and reverse the symptoms of scurvy.
2. Balanced Diet
It is essential to include foods rich in vitamin C in the daily diet to prevent and treat scurvy. Eating fruits such as oranges, lemons, strawberries and kiwis, as well as vegetables such as peppers, broccoli and spinach, is essential to maintain adequate levels of this vitamin.
3. Medical Follow-up
It is important to carry out adequate medical follow-up to monitor the evolution of scurvy and ensure that the treatment is being effective. In severe cases, supervision by a specialized medical team may be required.
In conclusion, scurvy is a deficiency disease caused by a deficiency of vitamin C in the body. Knowing the symptoms, causes and treatment of this condition is key to preventing its appearance and treating it effectively. Maintaining a balanced diet, rich in foods containing vitamin C, is essential to prevent scurvy and promote good health in general.