What Causes Scurvy?
September 26, 2018
A person who is significantly deficient in vitamin C has a condition called scurvy. Left untreated, scurvy can lead to many debilitating ailments and disorders, including anemia, ulcers on the gums resulting in tooth damage and loss, pain in the legs, and swelling. Scurvy was a prominent ailment in various parts of history, typically due to famine. Sailors would also contract scurvy after embarking on long voyages since it was difficult to obtain fresh fruits and vegetables. In the present day, scurvy continues to be a problem in developing countries as well as among specific socioeconomic populations within the developed world. It is essential to know the underlying causes and engage in preventative measures to combat scurvy.