Definition
Scurvy is a condition caused by an insufficient amount of vitamin C for a prolonged period of time. The condition causes weakness, anemia , and gingivitis . Scurvy is very rare in the United States and occurs most commonly in malnourished older adults and chronic alcoholics.
Causes
Scurvy is typically caused by a diet lacking in fruits and vegetables or foods fortified with vitamin C.
Risk Factors
A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition.
The following factors increase your chance of developing scurvy:
- A poor diet, with little or no fruits and vegetables
- Little or no vitamin C in the diet
- Anorexia nervosa
- Alcoholism
- Poor dental hygiene
- Gastrointestinal diseases (eg, malabsorption , inflammatory bowel disease , dyspepsia , Whipple's disease )
- Chemotherapy
- A fad diet
- Self-imposed restrictive diets for weight loss or due to food allergies
Symptoms
Symptoms include:
- Weakness
- Paleness
- Sunken eyes
- Tender gums and/or tooth loss
- Muscular pain
- Reopening of old wounds or sores
- Internal bleeding
- Loss of appetite
- Bruising easily
- Weight loss; inability to gain weight
- Diarrhea
- Increased heart rate
- Fever
- Irritability
- Aching and swelling in joints
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue
Diagnosis
Scurvy can be diagnosed during a physical exam, based on an analysis of symptoms and diet. Your doctor may order a blood test to measure the level of vitamin C in the blood. To diagnose scurvy in infants and children, an x-ray may be done.
Treatment
The treatment for scurvy is simple and effective. To eliminate symptoms and make a full recovery, increase vitamin C intake to recommended levels. You can increase vitamin C levels by:
- Eating a diet rich in citrus fruits, other fruits, and vegetables
- Taking vitamin C supplements