Why People Suffer From 'Pirate Disease' Even in the 21st Century

Although we think of diseases like scurvy as a thing of the past, they still occur today. Also known as the “pirate's disease,” scurvy killed millions of people in the 17th and 18th centuries and was long incurable. It typically killed sailors who ate a monotonous diet for months and were deficient in vitamin C. This caused their gums to bleed, their teeth to fall out, and their immune systems to malfunction. Today, we know how to prevent the disease, but a recent case in Canada has shown that Scurvy continues to affect people in the 21st century. In fact, it may be more common than we think.

Why do people suffer from

Still from the movie “Pirates of the Caribbean”

What is scurvy

Scurvy is a disease that occurs due to an acute deficiency of vitamin Cin the body. This vitamin is necessary for the synthesis of collagen, a substance responsible for the strength and health of connective tissues. With a lack of vitamin C, the body's tissues lose their elasticity, which leads to many unpleasant symptoms – from weakness and pain in the joints to bleeding gums and tooth loss.

What is scurvy? Scurvy usually affected sailors who could sail for several months at a time. Image source: National Library of Medicine. Photo.

Scurvy typically affected sailors who could sail for months at a time. Image source: National Library of Medicine

Scurvy became especially common during the Age of Discovery, when sailors went on long voyages and did not have access to fresh fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C. The disease quickly affected entire crews, killing hundreds of sailors.

What is scurvy. Citrus fruits are the best source of vitamin C. Image: Shutterstock. Photo.

Citrus fruits are the best source of vitamin C. Image: Shutterstock

However, it was eventually noticed that citrus fruits such as lemons and oranges could prevent and even cure scurvy. This discovery was a real salvation for the sailors of that time.

Read also: 5 unexpected facts about pirates – they were not like they are shown in the movies

How people get scurvy

Scurvy develops gradually, and the first symptoms may appear only after 4-12 weeks after a complete absence of vitamin C in the diet.

One of the most striking manifestations of scurvy is the fragility of blood vessels, which leads to bleeding gums and a characteristic rash on the skin. This is due to the fact that vitamin C is necessary for the production of collagen, which strengthens the vascular walls. Without it, blood vessels become fragile, and hemorrhages may appear on the body.

How People Get Scurvy. Bleeding gums are one of the most noticeable signs of scurvy. Image source: reddit.com. Photo.

Bleeding gums are one of the most noticeable signs of scurvy. Image source: reddit.com

In children, scurvy also slows down bone formation, and in adults, it weakens the gums and periosteum, which can lead to tooth loss. Painful bleeding in muscles and joints can also occur.

Scurvy patients have a weakened immune system, making them vulnerable to infections. They also develop anemia, which causes weakness and fatigue. Ultimately, scurvy can lead to death.

Everyone should know about this: How many vitamins should you take to stay healthy?

Scurvy in the modern world

A recent case in Canada reminded us that scurvy still poses a threat to our health.

According to Medical Xpress, the 65-year-old Toronto woman suffered from leg pain, weakness, and skin changes. Her mobility issues meant she was rarely outside her home, leading to social isolation. Her diet consisted mainly of canned goods and bread, which created a severe vitamin C deficiency.

Scurvy in the modern world. This case once again proves the importance of a varied diet. Image source: dietdoctor.com. Photo.

This case once again proves how important a varied diet is. Image source: dietdoctor.com

After a thorough examination, doctors diagnosed the patient with scurvy, which was confirmed by blood tests. The woman began taking vitamin C, and her condition improved. This case showed how a lack of fresh vegetables and fruits, especially among people with disabilities and low incomes, can lead to diseases that seem forgotten.

Doctors note that scurvy in the 21st century is much more common than one might think. This is especially true for people with limited access to fresh produce, smokers, or those with other health problems.

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To avoid scurvy and other health problems, you need to eat as varied a diet as possible. If you've read this far, be sure to check out our article “7 Signs You Need Vitamin C Right Now.”


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