Scurvy
Treating scurvy
Scurvy is treated with vitamin C supplements, which can quickly improve your symptoms.
Some symptoms, such as joint pain, will usually resolve within 48 hours. Most people will make a full recovery within two weeks.
Once your symptoms improve, you should be able to get enough vitamin C by eating a healthy, balanced diet and you'll no longer have to take supplements.
The type of specialist will depend on the underlying cause. For example, you may be referred to a:
- dietitian if your scurvy is caused by a very unhealthy diet and there are no underlying factors
- social worker or Occupational therapy if your scurvy is caused by an inability to cook for yourself due to disability or poor health
- gastroenterologist a doctor who specialises in treating digestive conditions, such as Crohn's disease , if your scurvy is caused by this type of condition
- psychologist if your scurvy is associated with a mental health or behavioural condition, such as depression , schizophrenia or anorexia nervosa
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 28 Nov 2016
Introduction
Scurvy is a rare condition that can occur if you don't have enough vitamin C in your diet. All of the vitamin C that the body needs has to come from your diet, so the best way to prevent scurvy is to eat a healthy, balanced diet that contains plenty of fruit and vegetables.
Symptoms of scurvy
The symptoms of scurvy usually begin three months after a person stops getting enough vitamin C in their diet.
Causes of scurvy
Scurvy is caused by a lack of vitamin C in your diet.
Treating scurvy
Scurvy is treated with vitamin C supplements, which can quickly improve your symptoms.
Preventing scurvy
The best way to prevent scurvy is to eat a healthy, balanced diet that contains plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables.
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