The Mayo Clinic states that vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a water-soluble vitamin necessary for the development and health of cartilage, collagen, muscles and the cardiovascular system. It also is required for the body to absorb iron and is found in citrus fruits and many vegetables. A severe vitamin C deficiency in infants and children can result in scurvy, a potentially life-threatening illness.
History
According to the Nutrition Health Review, scurvy has been known to affect populations in Egypt, Greece and Rome throughout history. During long bouts of war and oceanic travel, scurvy was rampant because military and crew rations were often poor in vitamin C sources. In 1536, Jacques Cartier gave his men a spruce tree needle mixture that was suggested by the local natives. Most of the men were cured after taking the potion. In 1742, James Lind of the British navy discovered that lemon juice was a miracle cure for scurvy; this discovery eventually led to voyagers taking citrus juice regularly to avoid the epidemic.
Symptoms
Children and infants suffering from scurvy often become fussy and experience pain when moving. They may lose their appetite or fail to gain weight normally. Their bones do not grow correctly, resulting in stunted or structurally altered bones, and bleeding and anemia also may be experienced due to scurvy. Bleeding will present itself most often as bruises or in the gums. Anemia may make the child feel weak, and any wounds present may not heal properly.
Diagnosis
If a child is exhibiting and experiencing symptoms of scurvy, an X-ray may be taken to determine if bone growth has been affected. Some doctors may order a test of vitamin C levels in the blood.
Treatment
Typically, a vitamin C deficiency is treated with supplements of high-dose vitamin C pills. These are taken daily, and symptoms will start to fade after seven to 14 days, according to Merck Manuals. If anemia also is exhibited by the patient, iron supplements will help alleviate it.
Prevention/Solution
In order to develop scurvy, a child must be severely deficient in vitamin C for a few months. This usually is not a concern with infants, as breast milk and modern formulas are fortified with or contain plenty of the vitamin. In order to prevent vitamin C deficiency, children and breastfeeding mothers need to eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, as cooking depletes the vitamin C levels in these foods. Adding a vitamin C or full-spectrum vitamin to your child's daily routine also can reduce the risk of scurvy.
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