What is the disease caused by deficiency of vitamin C?
The primary disease caused by a prolonged and severe deficiency of vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is scurvy. While often considered a historical ailment associated with sailors on long voyages, scurvy remains a relevant health concern in modern society, particularly among those with poor nutrition or underlying health conditions. Scurvy is not a contagious disease but a deficiency disorder that develops when the body's vitamin C stores are depleted, typically after at least three months of insufficient intake.
The Role of Vitamin C and The Pathophysiology of Scurvy
Vitamin C is an essential nutrient that plays a crucial role in many bodily functions. The most significant function related to scurvy is its role in the synthesis of collagen, a vital protein that provides structure and support to connective tissues throughout the body, including skin, gums, bones, and blood vessels.
Collagen Synthesis and Connective Tissue Breakdown
- Impact on Connective Tissue: Without adequate vitamin C, the body cannot properly synthesize and stabilize new collagen. This results in the progressive breakdown of existing collagen structures, leading to the characteristic symptoms of scurvy, such as weakened blood vessels, fragile skin, and gum disease.
- Importance for Bone and Joints: Collagen forms a crucial framework for bones and cartilage. A deficiency impairs this framework, potentially leading to fragile bones, joint pain, and spontaneous bleeding into the joints.
Antioxidant Function and Immune Health
- Oxidative Stress: Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that protects cells from damage caused by free radicals. In its absence, oxidative stress increases, contributing to cellular damage and impacting various body systems.
- Impaired Immunity: The immune system's function is compromised with low vitamin C levels. Vitamin C helps stimulate the production of white blood cells and enhances their function, meaning a deficiency can lead to an increased susceptibility to infections.
Symptoms and Progression of Scurvy
The symptoms of scurvy develop gradually and can be divided into early and advanced stages.
Early Signs (1–3 Months of Deficiency)
Early symptoms are often vague and can be mistaken for other conditions, making early diagnosis challenging.
- Fatigue and Malaise: Feelings of tiredness, weakness, and general ill-health are common first signs.
- Irritability: Changes in mood, including irritability and sadness, can occur.
- Joint and Muscle Pain: Aches in the muscles and joints are a frequent complaint.
- Appetite Loss: A reduced appetite and associated weight loss can also manifest.
Advanced Signs (After 3+ Months)
If the deficiency is left untreated, symptoms become more severe and indicative of scurvy.
- Oral Health Issues: Gums become swollen, purple, spongy, and prone to bleeding. Teeth may eventually loosen and fall out.
- Skin and Hair Changes: Bleeding under the skin, known as perifollicular hemorrhages and petechiae, is common. Hair may become dry, brittle, and coiled like a corkscrew. The skin can also become rough, scaly, and easily bruised.
- Anemia: Impaired iron absorption due to the lack of vitamin C can lead to anemia.
- Impaired Wound Healing: Old wounds may reopen, and new ones may fail to heal properly.
- Serious Complications: In severe, untreated cases, scurvy can lead to jaundice, internal bleeding, nerve problems, seizures, organ failure, and even death.
Who Is at Risk for Vitamin C Deficiency?
While rare in developed nations, vitamin C deficiency can affect certain populations.
- Individuals with chronic malnutrition or very poor dietary habits.
- Alcoholics and drug abusers.
- Elderly individuals who live alone and may have a limited diet.
- Smokers, as smoking increases the body's vitamin C requirement.
- Individuals with malabsorption disorders like Crohn's disease or celiac disease.
- People with certain conditions like cancer, kidney disease on dialysis, or severe mental health issues.
Treating and Preventing Scurvy
Treating and preventing scurvy is straightforward and highly effective. The condition is easily reversed with an increase in vitamin C intake.
Treatment with Vitamin C Supplementation
For diagnosed scurvy, treatment typically involves vitamin C supplements, followed by a regular, nutritious diet. A healthcare professional can determine the appropriate course of treatment.
- Recovery: Many symptoms, such as fatigue, lethargy, and pain, improve within 24 to 48 hours. Gum and dental issues may take longer to heal.
Prevention through a Nutritious Diet
The best way to prevent vitamin C deficiency is to consume a diet rich in fruits and vegetables. Since the body does not store vitamin C, a regular intake is essential.
- Eat Fresh and Raw: Vitamin C is sensitive to heat, light, and air. Eating fresh fruits and vegetables raw or lightly cooked helps preserve the vitamin content.
- Daily Intake: Include a variety of vitamin C-rich foods in your daily meals to help meet your dietary needs.
Comparison of Vitamin C Sources
| Food Source | Serving Size | Approximate Vitamin C Content |
|---|---|---|
| Red Bell Pepper | 1/2 cup, chopped | ~95 mg |
| Orange | 1 medium | ~70 mg |
| Strawberries | 1/2 cup | ~49 mg |
| Broccoli | 1/2 cup, cooked | ~51 mg |
| Kiwi | 1 medium | ~64 mg |
| Tomato | 1 medium | ~17 mg |
| Potato | 1 baked | ~17 mg |
Conclusion
While severe vitamin C deficiency, or scurvy, is rare in many parts of the world today, it is a reminder of the critical role proper nutrition plays in our overall health. The disease, which you could get due to deficiency of vitamin C, is entirely preventable and effectively treatable with increased intake of this vital nutrient. By maintaining a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, and addressing any underlying risk factors, individuals can ensure strong connective tissues, a robust immune system, and optimal well-being. Early recognition of symptoms, especially fatigue and gum issues, is key to preventing the advanced, and potentially dangerous, stages of the disease.
[Continental Hospitals https://continentalhospitals.com/blog/role-of-vitamin-c-in-collagen-production-and-bone-strength/]
