Scurvy

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Other names for Scurvy

Vitamin C deficiency
Ascorbic acid deficiency
Nutritional collagen disorder

Synopsis of Scurvy

Scurvy is a rare but serious condition caused by a prolonged deficiency of vitamin C (ascorbic acid), an essential nutrient involved in collagen synthesis, iron absorption, and immune function. Without adequate vitamin C, the body cannot properly form connective tissue, leading to weakness in the skin, blood vessels, gums, and bones. Early symptoms include fatigue, irritability, and joint pain, progressing to swollen, bleeding gums, poor wound healing, bruising, and in severe cases, anemia and organ dysfunction. Scurvy is preventable and easily treatable with dietary correction and supplementation.

Types:

  • Nutritional scurvy: Caused by inadequate intake of vitamin C over time

  • Infantile scurvy (Barlow’s disease): Affects infants fed on pasteurized or formula-only diets without adequate vitamin C

  • Secondary scurvy: Resulting from malabsorption syndromes, chronic illness, or alcoholism

Common Causes:

  • Diet lacking in fruits and vegetables

  • Alcoholism or eating disorders

  • Smoking (increases vitamin C needs)

  • Malabsorption conditions (e.g., Crohn’s disease, celiac disease)

  • Poverty, neglect, or food insecurity

  • Long-term restrictive diets or food aversions

Severity Causes:

  • Long-term deficiency (over 1–3 months)

  • Coexisting iron deficiency or chronic inflammation

  • Continued poor diet even after early symptoms arise

  • Undiagnosed malabsorption disorder

  • Recurrent infections weakening immune response

When to See a Doctor:

  • Fatigue and weakness without clear cause

  • Swollen, bleeding gums or loose teeth

  • Frequent bruising or petechiae (small red dots on skin)

  • Joint pain or swelling

  • Poor wound healing or persistent anemia

  • History of restrictive diet or malnutrition

Natural remedies for Scurvy

Vitamin C-rich foods: Citrus fruits, strawberries, bell peppers, kiwis, broccoli, and kale should be consumed daily to reverse and prevent deficiency.

Acerola cherry or camu camu (if present in supplement blends): Natural sources with extremely high vitamin C content that can support rapid recovery.

Turmeric: While not a direct treatment for scurvy, its anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce gum inflammation and joint pain during healing.

Probiotics: Improve gut health and nutrient absorption, which is especially helpful if scurvy is linked to poor digestion or chronic illness.

Aloe vera: Can be soothing for inflamed gums or irritated mucous membranes when used topically or as a gentle internal supplement.

Avoid refined sugar and alcohol: These can deplete vitamin C and worsen oxidative stress, slowing recovery.

Hydration: Keeping tissues well-hydrated helps support healing of skin, joints, and gums during recovery from deficiency.