Scurvy Symptoms : Effects of Vitamin C Deficiency

Understanding Scurvy Symptoms: Causes, Diagnosis and Treatment

Scurvy is a health condition that results from a deficiency of vitamin C and can present with symptoms affecting multiple body systems. To prevent scurvy symptoms, consider lifestyle changes like including more fresh fruits and vegetables in your diet. Avoid overcooking, prolonged storage, or dehydration of food, as these can reduce vitamin C content and other essential micronutrients.

Scurvy occurs when your body does not receive enough vitamin C (ascorbic acid) over time, leading to deficiency-related symptoms. While a low-vitamin C diet alone may not immediately cause scurvy, prolonged deficiency increases the risk significantly.

While scurvy is considered rare in the general population, studies of specific high-risk groups in India, such as the elderly or those with limited access to fresh produce, have reported high deficiency rates. One study focusing on a geriatric population in northern India found a vitamin C deficiency prevalence of 73.9%, highlighting the risk for vulnerable subgroups. In this blog, we will explore what the symptoms of scurvy are, how it is diagnosed and treated, and the best ways to prevent this condition.

What are the symptoms of scurvy?

A prolonged deficiency of vitamin C can lead to early signs of scurvy, such as fatigue, weakness, irritability, and joint pain. If left untreated, these symptoms can progress to more severe and potentially serious complications, including:

• Anaemia
• Swollen, bleeding, and purplish gums
• Loose or falling teeth
• Subcutaneous bleeding or skin haemorrhages
• Easy bruising
• Dry, rough, and scaly skin
• Swelling in the legs and feet
• Delayed wound healing or reopening of previously healed wounds

In infants and children, scurvy may present with:

• Irritability
• Pain during movement
• Loss of appetite
• Failure to gain weight or grow properly
• Anaemia

Prompt diagnosis and treatment with vitamin C supplementation can reverse the symptoms and prevent further complications.

What are the causes of scurvy?

A prolonged deficiency of vitamin C, typically lasting more than 3 months, can lead to scurvy. This often results from a diet lacking in fresh fruits and vegetables. To prevent this, include freshly harvested produce in your meals and avoid overcooking, as heat can destroy vitamin C content in food.

• Certain conditions can increase the body’s need for vitamin C, requiring higher intake to avoid deficiency. These include:
• Pregnancy
• Breastfeeding
• Illnesses causing a persistent high fever
• Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid)
• Chronic diarrhoea
• Recovery from recent surgery
• Severe burns
• Use of tobacco or tobacco products

During such times, ensuring an adequate supply of vitamin C through diet or supplements is essential for maintaining overall health.

What is the Importance of Vitamin C?

Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a vital nutrient that plays a key role in the growth, repair, and maintenance of skin, bones, and connective tissues. It supports the proper functioning of blood vessels and aids in wound healing.

Ascorbic acid also contributes to oral health by strengthening teeth and gums. Additionally, it enhances the absorption of iron from plant-based sources, which is essential for the production of red blood cells. As a powerful antioxidant, it helps protect the skin from damage caused by harmful free radicals in the environment.

How to Diagnose Scurvy?

Diagnosing scurvy symptoms typically involves assessing signs and evaluating response to vitamin C supplementation, often supported by a blood test to measure plasma vitamin C levels. However, blood tests alone are not always reliable for confirming a deficiency. In more advanced or acute cases, dermoscopy may be used to examine skin and hair for characteristic signs of scurvy.

In children, an X-ray is often necessary to detect skeletal changes or potential organ damage associated with paediatric scurvy, aiding in accurate diagnosis and timely treatment.

What is the treatment for scurvy?

Early detection of scurvy is key to starting prompt treatment and preventing serious complications. The most effective approach involves dietary improvements, including adding vitamin C-rich foods such as Indian gooseberry, fresh fruits, and seasonal vegetables to your meals.

• Treatment for scurvy is highly effective with vitamin C supplementation. Standard guidelines recommend 100 to 300 mg of vitamin C taken orally daily for several weeks. Most patients experience significant improvement in symptoms like fatigue and gum bleeding within 1 to 2 days, with full recovery typically taking a few weeks.

Most individuals begin to experience relief from scurvy symptoms such as fatigue, lethargy, joint pain, anorexia, and confusion within 24 to 48 hours of starting treatment. However, bone-related complications may take several weeks to fully resolve.

In cases of acute scurvy, symptoms typically subside within three months of consistent supplementation. While scurvy generally does not cause long-term effects if treated promptly, any severe dental or gum damage sustained may be irreversible.

What are the preventive measures for scurvy?

The most effective way to prevent scurvy is by including vitamin C-rich foods in your daily diet. If your dietary intake falls short of meeting your body's needs, you may consider vitamin C supplements under medical guidance. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the recommended daily intake of vitamin C varies by age and physiological conditions:

• Infants up to 6 months: 40 mg (usually met through breast milk)
• 7 to 12 months: 50 mg
• 1 to 3 years: 15 mg
• 4 to 8 years: 25 mg
• 9 to 13 years: 45 mg
• 14 to 18 years: 75 mg for males, 65 mg for females
• Adults (19+ years): 90 mg for males, 75 mg for females
• Pregnant women: 85 mg daily
• Lactating mothers: 120 mg daily
• Smokers: Require an additional 35 mg daily due to increased oxidative stress

To meet these needs, include the following fresh fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C in your diet:

• Citrus fruits such as lemons, guava, and sweet lime (mosambi)
• Tomatoes and potatoes
• Broccoli, cabbage, and spinach
• Sweet peppers and strawberries

Some excellent natural sources of vitamin C include:

• Indian gooseberry (amla): 600–700 mg per 100 g
• Oranges: ~70 mg per medium-sized fruit
• Capsicum (bell pepper): ~60 mg per 100 g

Incorporating these foods into your meals regularly supports immune function, collagen production, and overall health while effectively preventing scurvy.

Conclusion

Scurvy symptoms arise from a deficiency of vitamin C and can progress into serious health issues if not addressed. Early signs like easy bruising, bleeding gums, and delayed wound healing should be promptly evaluated by a healthcare professional to ensure timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment.