Vitamin C Deficiency: Clinical Features, Risk Factors, and Modern Lessons from Scurvy
Dr. Kumar’s Take:
Vitamin C deficiency, or scurvy, isn’t just history, it’s a real health concern, even in developed countries. This StatPearls review covers the causes, warning signs, and best ways to both treat and prevent this condition. The bottom line: eating enough fruits and vegetables is key, but anyone with a restricted diet or health issues affecting absorption should consider monitoring and possibly supplementing vitamin C.
Key Takeaways:
✔ Scurvy is caused by a lack of vitamin C and can show up in just a few months of poor intake.
✔ Classic signs include fatigue, corkscrew hairs, bleeding gums, and easy bruising.
✔ Certain groups, like those with limited diets, alcohol use, or digestive issues, are at higher risk.
✔ Vitamin C is found in many fruits and vegetables; supplements are effective if diet alone isn’t enough.
✔ Symptoms can improve quickly with proper vitamin C treatment, often within days to weeks.