The Core Cause: A Lack of Vitamin C
Scurvy is a disease caused by a prolonged and severe lack of vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, in the diet. Because the human body cannot produce vitamin C on its own and does not store it for long periods, a regular intake of fresh fruits and vegetables is essential. This vital nutrient plays a critical role in the synthesis of collagen, a fundamental protein that provides structure and integrity to connective tissues throughout the body, including skin, blood vessels, bones, and teeth. When vitamin C levels drop, collagen production is compromised, leading to the systemic breakdown and bleeding that characterize scurvy.
The Progressive Stages of Scurvy
What happens if you get scurvy is a progression from mild, nonspecific symptoms to severe, life-threatening complications. The timeline can vary, but signs typically begin to appear after one to three months of severe deficiency.
Early Signs (1-3 months)
In its initial phase, scurvy can be mistaken for a general malaise. The symptoms are often vague but can include:
- Fatigue and Lethargy: A persistent feeling of tiredness and lack of energy.
- Irritability and Mood Changes: Emotional shifts and a general feeling of being unwell.
- Joint and Muscle Pain: Aches and pains in the legs and other joints, sometimes described as a deep ache.
- Loss of Appetite: Poor appetite can lead to further nutritional deficiencies.
Advanced Manifestations
As the deficiency worsens, the lack of healthy collagen becomes more apparent, causing a breakdown in various tissues:
- Gum Disease: Gums may become swollen, spongy, bleed easily, and turn a purplish color. Teeth can also loosen and even fall out.
- Skin Hemorrhages: Small, red or blue spots called petechiae may appear on the skin, especially on the shins, due to fragile capillaries. This can progress to larger bruises (ecchymoses).
- Poor Wound Healing: Old wounds may reopen, and new ones will struggle to heal properly.
- Corkscrew Hairs: Hair follicles can become clogged, and the hair that grows out may be twisted and fragile.
- Swelling: Legs and other areas of the body may swell due to internal bleeding and weakened blood vessels.
- Anemia: Bleeding and decreased iron absorption can lead to a drop in red blood cells.
Critical Complications
Left untreated, scurvy can lead to life-threatening conditions due to widespread tissue damage and organ dysfunction:
- Internal Organ Bleeding: Spontaneous hemorrhaging can occur in vital organs, leading to organ failure.
- Jaundice: A yellowing of the skin and eyes can develop in the late stages.
- Neuropathy: Nerve damage can cause numbness and other issues.
- Convulsions and Death: The final stages can involve seizures, high fever, and eventually death, often from a sudden hemorrhage in the heart or brain.
Comparison of Early vs. Advanced Scurvy
| Symptom Category | Early Scurvy | Advanced Scurvy |
|---|---|---|
| General Symptoms | Fatigue, lethargy, irritability | Severe weakness, anemia, profound malaise |
| Oral Health | Sore and mildly swollen gums | Profoundly swollen, bleeding, and purple gums; loose or missing teeth |
| Skin | Easy bruising, minor perifollicular bleeding | Widespread petechiae, large ecchymoses, rough and scaly skin |
| Hair | Subtle changes in hair texture | Brittle, coiled, or corkscrew-shaped hairs |
| Musculoskeletal | Vague joint and muscle aches | Severe joint pain, weakened bones, subperiosteal hemorrhages |
| Healing | Delayed wound recovery | Open, non-healing wounds, or reopened old scars |
Who is at Risk for Scurvy?
While rare in modern developed nations, scurvy is not a disease of the past. Certain populations are at increased risk due to dietary limitations or underlying conditions. These groups include:
- Individuals with restrictive or unusual diets, including those with eating disorders.
- Older adults, particularly those who live alone and have limited food variety.
- People with alcohol or drug dependencies that affect their nutrition.
- Those with gastrointestinal disorders like Crohn's disease that impair nutrient absorption.
- Individuals undergoing certain medical treatments, like chemotherapy, which affect appetite.
- Smokers, who have reduced vitamin C absorption.
- Infants fed only cow's or goat's milk and not receiving proper supplements or breast milk.
Treatment and Recovery
Fortunately, scurvy is easily and effectively treated by increasing vitamin C intake. Treatment usually involves taking oral vitamin C supplements, often in high doses initially, followed by regular maintenance doses and a dietary shift towards vitamin C-rich foods. Improvements are often remarkably quick.
- Rapid Improvement: Many symptoms, such as fatigue, lethargy, and general pain, begin to improve within 24 to 72 hours of starting treatment.
- Sustained Recovery: Bruising, gum bleeding, and perifollicular hemorrhages typically resolve within one to two weeks.
- Full Resolution: Most symptoms disappear entirely within a few weeks to three months, though severe bone or dental damage may be permanent.
Prevention is Key
The best defense against scurvy is ensuring a regular intake of vitamin C-rich foods. Good sources include:
- Citrus fruits (oranges, lemons, grapefruit)
- Strawberries
- Kiwi fruit
- Broccoli and Brussels sprouts
- Sweet peppers
- Potatoes and tomatoes
- Green leafy vegetables
It is important to note that prolonged cooking can destroy vitamin C, so consuming raw or lightly cooked vegetables is best. For those unable to maintain adequate intake through diet, supplements are a safe and effective way to prevent deficiency. The Office of Dietary Supplements at the National Institutes of Health provides comprehensive information on vitamin C requirements and sources.
Conclusion
In conclusion, what happens if you get scurvy is a progressive and debilitating health crisis caused by a lack of vitamin C. While historical cases were widespread among specific groups, the condition still poses a risk to vulnerable populations today. The disease's impact on collagen production leads to a cascade of symptoms affecting skin, gums, joints, and internal organs. The good news is that scurvy is both preventable and easily treated with proper vitamin C supplementation and dietary changes. A balanced diet rich in fresh produce is the most reliable way to avoid the suffering and severe health complications that can arise from this deficiency.
