Scurvy

Scurvy is a disease caused by not getting enough vitamin C for a prolonged period. Vitamin C helps the body make collagen, which supports connective tissue, skin, blood vessels and wound healing. Without enough of it, tissues can become weak, wounds may heal slowly, and bleeding can occur. Scurvy can affect anyone with a severely limited or poorly absorbed source of vitamin C, including people facing food insecurity or restrictive eating.

Scurvy occurs when vitamin C intake remains too low for a prolonged period or the body cannot absorb enough of the vitamin. Vitamin C is needed to produce collagen, maintain blood vessels and connective tissue, support wound healing and help normal immune function. This prolonged deficiency may develop through diet, health conditions or practical barriers to obtaining and preparing nutritious food.

Clinicians ask about diet, food access, medical conditions, medicines and when symptoms began. They may examine the skin, gums, joints and any wounds, while also looking for signs of bruising or bleeding. This combination helps assess whether the symptoms fit scurvy and whether another condition could be involved.

Blood tests may assess vitamin C status and look for anemia or other effects of bleeding. Additional evaluations may be used to investigate alternative diagnoses or conditions affecting absorption and nutrition. Test selection depends on the clinical picture, and improvement with medically supervised vitamin C treatment may support the diagnosis but does not replace professional evaluation.

Treatment usually involves clinician-directed vitamin C replacement and a sustainable diet containing vitamin C-rich foods. A healthcare professional can choose an appropriate approach based on the severity of the deficiency, other conditions and the person’s ability to absorb and use nutrients. Treatment also needs to address why the deficiency developed so it does not return.

Most scurvy is preventable with a varied diet that regularly includes sources of vitamin C. People with absorption problems, restrictive intake or difficulty accessing food may need individualized advice from a clinician or dietitian. Do not make major dietary changes without support if an eating disorder or medical condition affects nutrition.

Scurvy is usually treatable when it is recognized and vitamin C is restored. Symptoms often begin improving after treatment starts, although the pace of recovery varies and some tissue or dental problems may need additional care. Early treatment can help prevent more serious complications.

The outlook depends on how long the deficiency has lasted, whether bleeding or anemia is present, any coexisting conditions and whether the underlying nutritional problem is corrected. Ongoing support may be needed when food access, restrictive eating or absorption problems make it difficult to maintain adequate vitamin C.

Arrange a medical appointment if you have persistent fatigue, unusual bruising, swollen or bleeding gums, slow wound healing or a very limited diet. You should also seek advice if you are concerned about vitamin C deficiency or have a condition that may affect nutrient absorption. A clinician can assess the cause and recommend appropriate treatment.