Cures for Scurvy

Scurvy is a disease brought on by a deficiency of vitamin C that usually occurs as a result of malnourishment. Individuals at risk of getting scurvy are alcoholics, children, the elderly, those who receive dialysis treatments and people who have conditions such as Crohn's disease, dyspepsia and other disorders that affect the proper absorption of vitamin C. Scurvy is easily treated with vitamin C supplements and proper diet.

Symptoms

• Scurvy is a rare condition that generally begins with symptoms such as fatigue, weakness and aching legs. Individuals may also experience gingivitis, gum disease and hemorrhages of the skin. A deficiency of vitamin C also interferes with proper functioning of the immune system, cholesterol metabolism and absorption of iron.

  Vitamin C is an important nutrient needed to form collage, which is an important part of the connective tissue of the blood vessels and skin. The vessels may leak through to the skin causing blood spots to form under the skin. The body hairs present where hemorrhages occur will become brittle and twisted like a corkscrew.

  When the immune system is not performing properly, individuals may deal with more infections than usual. Inadequate iron absorption may lead to anemia, which makes you feel very tired and often ill.

  Inadequate cholesterol absorption can only be determined by blood tests.

  Scurvy does not usually cause any permanent damage except for tooth loss associated with gingivitis.

Treatment of Scurvy in Adults

• Individuals with scurvy should take vitamin C supplements. Adults should start by taking 800 to 1000 milligrams each day for a week. Then they should take 400 milligrams every day until they are completely recovered. Many people will notice some improvement after the first 24 hours.

Treatment of Scurvy in Children

• Children with scurvy need to be given 150 to 300 milligrams of vitamin C each day for a month. After that, caregivers should try to get kids to eat foods containing vitamin C and give them with a daily multivitamin. If the child refuses to eat fresh fruit, try orange juice.

Prevention

• To prevent recurrences of scurvy, individuals should strive to eat the recommended daily intake of vitamin C every day. This amount can usually be reached by eating about five servings of vegetables and fruits. Toddlers need 15milligrams of vitamin C each day. Children ages 4 to 8 need 25 milligrams and kids from 9 to 13 need 45 milligrams each day. Teenage girls need 65 milligrams per day, while teenage boys need 75 milligrams. Adult females should have 75 milligrams each day and adult males 90 milligrams. Smokers and breastfeeding mothers need extra vitamin C.