A Victorian-era illness is seeing a steady rise in cases across the UK – and some researchers are suggesting GLP-1 medications could be a contributing factor. Yet many people remain unaware of the broad range of symptoms that might signal they’re suffering from this uncommon condition.
Scurvy is typically linked with gum and mouth problems, but one pharmacist has outlined the skin, muscle, joint and mental health symptoms that are also connected to the disease. Claire Nevinson, Superintendent Pharmacist at Boots, said: “Scurvy is a rare disease caused when someone has a severe vitamin C deficiency.
“Most people get enough of the nutrient from their diet, as vitamin C is found in many fruit and vegetables, but scurvy can develop when a person has a long-term absence of it.”
This shortage impacts various functions and systems throughout the body. Without treatment for a prolonged period, scurvy can prove fatal and anyone experiencing symptoms should seek treatment immediately.
Little known symptoms of scurvy:
- Feeling tired and weak all the time
- Feeling irritable and sad all the time
- Joint, muscle or leg pain
- Developing red or blue spots on the skin
- Easily bruised skin
The pharmacist continued: “It’s important that scurvy is treated quickly. Without treatment, scurvy can cause serious problems and in some cases, may even be life-threatening.
“Mild cases of scurvy are often easily treated by adding more vitamin C to the diet, including fresh fruit and vegetables. A GP may also recommend taking vitamin C supplements or in some cases, may refer to a specialist for treatment, support or advice.”
Worldwide, the increase in scurvy cases is being associated with GLP-1 weight loss medications. Researchers in Australia have been sounding the alarm about these drugs’ potential to cause nutrient deficiency.
Last year, Robbie Williams disclosed that he had been diagnosed with scurvy after using weight loss medication. He explained that the appetite-suppressant helped him lose nearly two stone but because he had “stopped eating, I wasn’t getting nutrients”, he told the Mirror.
Vitamin C is present in a variety of fruits and vegetables, such as peppers, broccoli, brussel sprouts, sweet potatoes and kiwi fruit. However, oranges are perhaps the most well-known source, with around 90% of an adult’s daily recommended intake found in a single medium-sized orange.
This story originally appeared on Express.co.uk
