What Is Scurvy? Side Effects, Dosage, Cost, and More

When we think of diseases from the past, scurvy often comes to mind — a condition once feared by sailors on long voyages without access to fresh fruits and vegetables. But did you know scurvy still exists today?

In this article, we’ll dive into what scurvy really is, what causes it, the side effects you should watch for, how it’s treated (including dosage and cost of treatment), and more. Whether you're curious or concerned, here's everything you need to know — written in plain, human language.

What Is Scurvy?

Scurvy is a disease caused by a severe deficiency of vitamin C (also known as ascorbic acid) in the body. Vitamin C is essential for producing collagen — a protein that helps maintain healthy skin, blood vessels, bones, and connective tissue.

When your body doesn’t get enough vitamin C over a long period, it starts to show signs of breakdown — and that’s when scurvy can set in.

What Causes Scurvy?

Scurvy develops when you consistently don't consume enough vitamin C. This can happen due to:

Poor diet (especially one lacking fruits and vegetables)
Extreme diets or food restrictions
Alcoholism
Eating disorders
Certain chronic illnesses or digestive disorders (like Crohn’s disease)
Smoking (which reduces vitamin C levels)

Although rare in developed countries, scurvy still occurs in people with limited access to fresh food or those with underlying health issues.

Common Symptoms and Side Effects of Scurvy

Scurvy doesn’t happen overnight. Symptoms develop gradually and often worsen over weeks or months.

Early Symptoms:

Fatigue
Weakness
Irritability
Muscle and joint pain

Progressive Symptoms:

Swollen, bleeding gums
Loose teeth
Easy bruising
Dry, rough skin
Small red or purple spots on the skin (due to bleeding under the skin)
Slow wound healing
Anemia

In severe, untreated cases, scurvy can lead to organ failure or even death — but this is extremely rare with modern medical care.

How Is Scurvy Diagnosed?

Diagnosis is usually based on a physical exam, medical history, and dietary habits. A blood test can confirm low levels of vitamin C.

If a healthcare provider suspects scurvy, treatment often begins immediately, even before lab results return — because vitamin C is safe and effective.

Scurvy Treatment and Dosage

The good news? Scurvy is easily treated — and often symptoms begin to improve within just 24 to 48 hours of starting treatment.

Recommended Dosage:

*Mild to moderate scurvy:

#100–250 mg of vitamin C daily for 1–2 weeks

#Severe cases:

*Up to 1,000 mg daily under medical supervision, then reduced as symptoms improve

Treatment continues until all symptoms are gone — and afterward, a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables is essential to prevent recurrence.

🍊 Foods high in vitamin C include oranges, strawberries, kiwi, bell peppers, broccoli, and tomatoes.

Cost of Treating Scurvy

Vitamin C supplements are inexpensive and widely available.

Average Cost (U.S.):

Over-the-counter Vitamin C supplements: $5–$20/month
Prescription supplements (if needed): Slightly higher, but often covered by insurance
Medical consultation and blood tests: Varies, especially if done through insurance or public healthcare systems

In most cases, treating scurvy is low-cost — especially when caught early.

Who Is at Risk for Scurvy?

Although scurvy is rare today, certain groups are more vulnerable, including:

People with extremely poor diets
Individuals with substance use disorders
The elderly (especially those living alone or in care homes)
People with gastrointestinal conditions that limit nutrient absorption
Patients recovering from surgery or with limited mobility

Can Scurvy Be Prevented?

Yes — and prevention is simple!

Tips to Prevent Scurvy:

*Eat a diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables

*Supplement with vitamin C if you have dietary restrictions

*Avoid smoking or excessive alcohol use

*Talk to your doctor if you have trouble digesting or absorbing nutrients

Conclusion

While scurvy might seem like an outdated disease, it's still a real health issue for some today — especially those with restricted diets or chronic health conditions. The key takeaway? Vitamin C is vital, and even a small daily amount can make a big difference.

Fortunately, scurvy is easy to prevent, easy to treat, and rarely causes lasting harm if caught early. A glass of orange juice a day really can keep the doctor away!

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider regarding your specific health needs.