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Scurvy. Def. - when the body looses the ability to synthesize and make Vitamin C (also known as Ascorbic Acid), due to the lack of it, causing the body to depend on other sources to meet the Vitamin C requirements. Scientific Definition.
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Scurvy Def. - when the body looses the ability to synthesize and make Vitamin C (also known as Ascorbic Acid), due to the lack of it, causing the body to depend on other sources to meet the Vitamin C requirements.
ScientificDefinition The Vitamin C deficiency called scurvy causes issues with the formation of collagen, a major part of connective tissue. Without collagen, the skin looses its thick protection, its structure and support, and creates a more permeable layer. http://dermnetnz.org/systemic/scurvy.html
Signs of Scurvy Scurvy can begin with symptoms of appetite loss, not gaining weight and fever, but as time passes it can become more serious with the following: • Skin problems- large bruises around hair follicles that break off easily • Oral problems- gum swelling, bleeding, and teeth loss • Musculoskeletal problems – bleeding in the joints causing pain • Eye problems- dryness, irritation, sensitivity to light, and visual blurring • Anemia – reduced number of red blood cells • Heart and lung problems- shortness of breath, low blood pressure, and chest pain
History In the 1750's, the Scottish physician, Dr. James Lind, experimented on six patients who had scurvy. Each was given a different acidic drink like, vinegar, seawater, sulfuric acid solution, apple cider, garlic and mustard seed, or two oranges and a lemon. He found that the men who ate the citrus fruit healed quickly, while the ones who drank the cider were slower, and the others didn’t get better at all. Due to his observations, limes became a requirement on British ships giving British sailors the nickname of “Limeys”. http://www.bookdrum.com/books/longitude/9780802715296/bookmarks.html
Scurvy is treated with Vitamin C supplements and the following foods containing Vitamin C: Causes Treatment Oranges Lemons Blackcurrants Guava Kiwi Papaya Tomatoes Strawberries Carrots Bell peppers Broccoli Potatoes Cabbage Spinach Paprika Liver Oysters As claimed in both definitions, Scurvy is caused by a lack of Vitamin C in one’s diet. http://images.businessweek.com/ss/07/12/1206_biotech_brunch/image/papaya.jpg
Without treatment, the effects Scurvy has on the respiratory system can lead to death. Worst Case Scenario
Facts About Scurvy People that most commonly get scurvy are: • Alcoholics • Elderly • Men who live alone • Children • People on odd diets or food fads • People who fear food, try to starve themselves to death, and/or have eating disorders http://www.oprah.com/food/Eating-Exotic-Foods-Food-Fear-Factor
Facts About Scurvy May 2nd is Scurvy Day. http://atomicbearpress.com/2008/06/09/captain-scurvy/
Citations • http://www.todayifoundout.com/index.php/2010/12/the-effects-of-scurvy/ • http://dermnetnz.org/systemic/scurvy.html • http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/125350-overview • http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/155758.php • http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/Scurvy/Pages/Treatment.aspx • "Scurvy." Magill's Medical Guide, 4th Rev. ed.. 2008. eLibrary. Web. 07 Oct. 2013. Presentation by: Tessa Loewen 1st hr.