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- DictionaryScur·vy/ˈskərvē/
noun
- 1. a disease caused by a deficiency of vitamin C, characterized by swollen bleeding gums and the opening of previously healed wounds, which particularly affected poorly nourished sailors until the end of the 18th century: "the ravages of scurvy"
adjective
- 1. worthless or contemptible: archaic "that was a scurvy trick"
People also ask
What does scurvy mean?
Where did scurvy come from?
What are the symptoms of scurvy?
Scurvy is a disease caused by a lack of vitamin C, which causes spongy gums, loosening of the teeth, and bleeding under the skin. It can also be an adjective meaning contemptible or despicable. Learn more about the word history, synonyms, examples, and related phrases of scurvy.
- Overview
- Symptoms and Causes
- Diagnosis and Tests
- Management and Treatment
- Prevention
- Outlook / Prognosis
Scurvy is a disease caused by a serious vitamin C deficiency. Not eating enough fruits and vegetables is the main cause of the disease. Left untreated, scurvy can lead to bleeding gums, loosened teeth and bleeding under your skin. Treatment for the condition includes getting plenty of vitamin C in your diet. Dietary supplements are also available.
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OverviewSymptoms and CausesDiagnosis and TestsManagement and TreatmentPreventionOutlook / Prognosis
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What are the symptoms of scurvy?
Scurvy symptoms may start to develop after a few months of not getting enough vitamin C in your diet. The first symptoms may include general weakness, fatigue, irritability and joint pain. If left untreated, more severe symptoms may start to develop. These may include: Anemia. Swollen, bleeding gums that may become purple and spongy. Loosened teeth that may fall out. Bleeding under your skin (skin hemorrhages). You may develop a “scurvy rash” that shows up as red or blue spots on your skin. Easily bruised skin. Rough, scaly skin. Swollen legs. Opening of previously healed wounds and new wounds that don’t heal. Dry, brittle hair that coils like a corkscrew. In babies and children, symptoms of scurvy may include: Irritability. Pain when they move. No appetite. Failure to gain weight. Anemia. Advertisement
What causes scurvy?
A severe lack of vitamin C in your diet for at least three months can cause scurvy. Reasons for this deficiency include not eating enough fresh fruits and vegetables. Also, cooking destroys some of the vitamin C found in food. Certain conditions increase your body’s vitamin C requirement. You need more vitamin C and risk deficiency if you don’t get enough while experiencing the following conditions: Pregnancy. Breastfeeding (chestfeeding). Disorders that cause high fevers. Overactive thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism). Chronic diarrhea. Recent surgery. Burns. Tobacco usage.
Is scurvy contagious?
No, scurvy isn’t contagious. You can only get scurvy by having a severe vitamin C deficiency.
How is scurvy diagnosed?
Your healthcare provider can diagnose scurvy based on your symptoms. They’ll perform a physical examination and evaluate you based on certain risk factors for the condition.
What tests will be done to diagnose scurvy?
Your healthcare provider may request a blood test to measure the amount of vitamin C in your blood. In addition, they may perform a test called a dermoscopy. With this procedure, they’ll take a sample of your affected skin or hair (biopsy) and examine it under a microscope.
How is scurvy treated?
Scurvy treatment is essential to avoid further complications. The condition is easily treatable by consuming more vitamin C. You should try to maintain a nutritious diet that includes one to two times your daily recommended amount of vitamin C. You can do so by adding fresh fruits and vegetables to every meal. Your healthcare provider may also recommend taking a vitamin C supplement until you feel better. Children with scurvy can take a supplement of up to 300 milligrams (mg) daily. Adults can take between 500 mg and 1000 mg.
How soon after treatment will I feel better?
Most people feel better within 48 hours of treatment. You should be able to make a full recovery within two weeks. Some symptoms may take longer to fully clear up. Depending on the cause of your condition, your provider may refer you to a specialist for further treatment. Care at Cleveland Clinic Find a Primary Care Provider Schedule an Appointment
How can I prevent scurvy?
You can prevent scurvy by getting the recommended daily allowance of vitamin C in your diet. The best sources of the nutrient are fresh fruits and vegetables. Good sources of vitamin C include: Citrus fruits. Tomatoes. Potatoes. Broccoli. Strawberries. Sweet peppers. Speak to your healthcare provider before taking a vitamin C dietary supplement.
What can I expect if I have scurvy?
With immediate treatment, the symptoms of scurvy should start to pass within 24 to 48 hours. Some symptoms may take longer to go away. Dental and gum issues as well as corkscrew hairs may take weeks to months to disappear. Severe gum disease may cause permanent damage. A note from Cleveland Clinic Scurvy is a disease caused by an extreme vitamin C deficiency. While a diet low in vitamin C can cause a deficiency, the condition usually doesn’t reach the level of scurvy. To avoid any risk, make sure to eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables with your diet. Citrus fruits such as oranges and grapefruits are great choices, but you can also get plenty of this nutrient through potatoes, tomatoes and even strawberries. If you’re experiencing any symptoms of scurvy, see your healthcare provider right away. Medically Reviewed Last reviewed by a Cleveland Clinic medical professional on 10/20/2022. Learn more about our editorial process.
Apr 26, 2022 · Scurvy is a severe vitamin C deficiency that can cause bleeding, bruising, swelling, and oral problems. Learn how to prevent and treat scurvy with fruits, vegetables, supplements, and medical advice.
- Teresa Beard
Scurvy is a disease resulting from a lack of vitamin C (ascorbic acid). Early symptoms of deficiency include weakness, fatigue, and sore arms and legs. Without treatment, decreased red blood cells, gum disease, changes to hair, and bleeding from the skin may occur.
- Based on symptoms
- Lack of vitamin C
- Weakness, feeling tired, changes to hair, sore arms and legs, gum disease, easy bleeding
Mar 28, 2022 · Scurvy is a severe vitamin C deficiency that causes widespread symptoms, such as weakness, bruising, and bleeding. It can be treated by eating or taking vitamin C-rich foods or supplements. Learn about the causes, diagnosis, complications, and outlook of scurvy.
Feb 22, 2023 · Scurvy is a rare disease caused by a deficiency in vitamin C, which is essential for immune system support, iron absorption, and collagen production. Learn about the signs, risk factors, diagnosis, and treatment of scurvy, and how to prevent it by eating vitamin C–rich foods or supplements.
Nov 15, 2023 · Scurvy is a condition that results from a vitamin C deficiency and can cause anemia, bleeding, tooth loss, and other problems. Learn how to prevent and treat scurvy with vitamin C supplements and fresh fruits and vegetables, and what are the symptoms and causes of this rare condition.
