Ascorbic Acid Deficiency (Scurvy)
Ascorbic Acid Deficiency
Scurvy happens when there is a severe lack of vitamin C in your diet. Vitamin C helps to form a kind of protein called collagen. This protein is in your bones and cartilage. It is also in your muscles, tendons, and ligaments. There is collagen in your skin and blood vessels as well. If you do not have enough vitamin C, the collagen in these tissues may start to break down.
Name
Scurvy
About this topic
Scurvy happens when there is a severe lack of vitamin C in your diet. Vitamin C helps to form a kind of protein called collagen. This protein is in your bones and cartilage. It is also in your muscles, tendons, and ligaments. There is collagen in your skin and blood vessels as well. If you do not have enough vitamin C, the collagen in these tissues may start to break down.
What drugs may be needed?
Help bring up your vitamin C levels,Help with pain and swelling
What changes to diet are needed?
Fruits like oranges, lemons, limes, grapefruits, black currants, kiwis, or strawberries,Vegetables like tomatoes, broccoli, sweet peppers, cabbage, spinach, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes,Foods fortified with vitamin C
What problems could happen?
Slow growth in babies and children,Joints are sore and swollen,Problems with bruising, bleeding, and low blood counts,Wounds do not heal well,Loss of teeth,Bulging eyes or problems seeing,Problems fighting infections,Heart attack,Death
Body systems
Endocrine and Metabolic
What are other common names?
Ascorbic Acid Deficiency,Scorbutus,Vitamin C Deficiency
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care provider’s advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you.
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Copyright © 2020 Wolters Kluwer Clinical Drug Information, Inc. and its affiliates and/or licensors. All rights reserved.
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