What Is The Difference Between Scurvy And Pellagra?
The deficiency of Vitamin C causes Scurvy and Pellagra is caused by the deficiency of Vitamin B3 and proteins. The symptoms related to scurvy are weakness, tiredness, irritability, bleeding from the gums, bruising and poor healing and the presence of spots on the skin. The symptoms of Pellagra include irritability, depression, diarrhea, mental confusion, memory loss, sensitivity to light. As scurvy is caused by the deficiency of Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) it can easily be rectified by the regular intake of foods rich in Vitamin C such as gooseberry, lime or lemon juice, mango powder and potatoes. The treatment of Pellagra involves eating a well balanced diet and severe cases are prescribed various multi vitamin supplements. Endemic cases are treated by enriching flour and corn to include sufficient quantities of vitamin B3 (niacin). Protein rich food is also beneficial.
