Scurvy, known as the sailors' disease, is a disease caused by a deficiency of vitamin C (ascorbic acid). Scurvy was described by Hippocrates (c. 460 BC - 380 BC) and herbal remedies for the disease have been known in many native cultures since prehistoric times. What are the symptoms of scurvy and how is it treated? Is scurvy contagious?
Scurvy( gnilec , cynga, Latinscorbutus ) most often occurred among sailors, pirates, as well as soldiers who, exposed to the lack of fresh fruit and vegetables, ate cured food, dried seeds and s alted meat, devoid of this particular ingredient.
The disease often killed crew members on long-haul voyages. Scientists had many theories about the causes of the disease, often based on little or no experimental data. The breakthrough came in 1932 with the isolation of vitamin C and direct evidence presented thatscurvy is associated with nutritional deficiencies .
Ascorbic acid deficiencies are rare these days. They can be the result of hunger (third world countries), malnutrition caused by alcoholism, poor diet, old age, mental disorders (starvation, disgust with food), malabsorption disorders, e.g. Crohn's disease.
Scurvy - symptoms
The first symptoms are:
- drowsiness
- excessive fatigue
- loss of appetite
It may appear after a few months
- shortness of breath
- chest pains
- bone pain
- muscle pains
Bone calcification and iron absorption are impeded.
Appearingskin changes :
- red-blue spots around the hair follicle, resembling small bruises
- bruises easily
- petechiae
- there is a problem with wound healing
Gum disease can lead to loosening and loss of teeth.
There may be emotional changes, dryness of the conjunctiva (irritation, photosensitivity, subconjunctival haemorrhage) or oral mucosa. In the late stages they come:
- jaundice
- general swelling
- oliguria
- neurological disorders
- fever
- convulsions
- severe infections that can lead to sepsis and eventually death
Scurvy: how to prevent?
The recommended intake of vitamin C for an adult is 45 to 90 mg daily . In order to prevent scurvy, a proper diet, rich in fruits and vegetables, which are rich in this vitamin, is sufficient. They are mainly citrus fruits, e.g.
- lemon
- oranges
but also others, such as:
- currants
- guava
- kiwi
- papaya
- tomatoes
- strawberries
vegetables, such as:
- carrot
- broccoli
- potatoes
- cabbage
- spinach
- pepper
Fresh meat from animals that make their own vitamin C (which most animals can do) contains enough vitamin C to prevent or even partially heal scurvy. In the presence of a balanced diet, additional vitamin C supplementation is unnecessary, however, there are dietary supplements containing a dose significantly exceeding the daily requirement for vitamin C.
Nowadays, many products, even such as drinks, candies, are fortified with this vitamin as a preservative. The pasteurization process destroys ascorbic acid. It decomposes in the cooking process.
Treatment of scurvy
Illness always results in death if left untreated. However, it rarely does so these days. A well-diagnosed disease is easy to cure - it requires the supply of vitamin C both orally - tablets, diet (fruits, vegetables) and parenterally - drips.
- What is vitamin C for?
Ascorbic acid in the human body is used for the proper functioning of the thyroid and pituitary gland (it is needed for the production of steroid hormones). It is necessary for the synthesis of collagen, which is a component of tendons, it is found in the subcutaneous tissue, articular cartilage, tissues that make up the mucous membranes and the interior of veins and arteries, it is responsible for skin elasticity, and also fills the cornea of the eye.
It takes part in the absorption of iron from the gastrointestinal tract, preventing anemia and protecting against vitamin E. It is important in the metabolism of fats, cholesterol and bile acids. It has bactericidal and bacteriostatic properties and takes part in the destruction of oxygen and hydroxyl radicals, singlet oxygen and peroxides.
- Is it possible to overdose on vitamin C?
Vitamin C wshort-term overdose is not toxic. Its excess is excreted in the urine. However, it may cause ailments on the part of the digestive system:
- nausea
- diarrhea
- vomiting
- stomach pains
- rash
With prolonged excessive use, an excess of ascorbic acid can lead to the formation of stones in the kidneys and cause you to urinate more frequently.
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