17 Signs and Symptoms of Vitamin C Deficiency
Nutrients are the most important aspect of maintaining optimal body performance, where vitamin C is crucial. Lack or excess supply of nutrients, including vitamin C, may lead to significant health problems and uneasiness.
This article explains the reasons behind insufficient vitamin C intake, its effects on a person’s body, and how one can easily recover from such instances through medication.
Table of Contents
What is Vitamin C Deficiency?
Vitamin C deficiency results from an improper diet. In the long run, this deficiency can prevent and ultimately stop new collagen formation. As a result, different body tissues can begin to disintegrate, impacting the body’s healing mechanism and overall health.
A vitamin C deficit diet, if continued for 3 months or more, can result in severe health conditions involving bleeding lips and gums. Detecting early signs of these diseases can help prevent their adverse effects.
How Common is Vitamin C Deficiency?
Vitamin C deficiency is relatively rare in developed countries, affecting as many as 7% of people, particularly those without easy access to fresh fruits and vegetables, limited diets, or underlying medical conditions.
Other things that raise risk include smoking, alcoholism, and certain medical treatments. In areas with food shortages and malnutrition, there is a much higher incidence rate for lack of vitamin C. Individuals with conditions impairing nutrient absorption, such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, are also at increased risk.
What are the Signs & Symptoms of Vitamin C Deficiency?
The severity level of vitamin C deficiency in humans can vary widely, ranging from mild forms to severe cases involving multiple organ systems. Early manifestations may not be noticeable, but later on, they become complicated, leading to serious consequences for multiple organs.
This table provides all these symptoms along with their underlying interpretations:
Sr.No. |
Symptom | Description |
1 | Pain in Joints and Muscles | Weakened connective tissues cause constant joint and muscle pain due to collagen insufficiency, thus making movements difficult and uncomfortable physically. |
2 | Bruise-like Spots on Skin | The appearance of small red or blue spots (petechiae) due to fragile blood vessels, often resulting in easy bruising without significant injury. |
3 | Fatigue and Weakness | Generalised fatigue, lethargy, and weakness stemming from decreased red blood cell production and impaired energy metabolism. |
4 | Easy Bruising | Increased tendency to bruise easily, even from minor bumps, due to compromised blood vessel integrity and slower healing processes. |
5 | Weight Loss | Unintentional weight loss is linked to poor appetite, digestive issues, and the body’s inability to absorb and utilise nutrients effectively. |
6 | Dry and Damaged Skin | Rough, dry, and flaky skin due to impaired collagen synthesis, affecting the skin's elasticity and moisture retention. |
7 | Split Ends and Hair Damage | Hair becomes dry, brittle, and prone to split ends because of weakened collagen in hair follicles and reduced scalp circulation. |
8 | Discolouration and Gum Swelling | Swollen, red, and bleeding gums may turn purple due to weakened gum tissues and reduced ability to heal and maintain oral health. |
9 | Infection Susceptibility | Increased vulnerability to infections due to a compromised immune system, which struggles to respond effectively to pathogens and repair damaged tissues. |
10 | Poor Wound Healing | Delayed wound healing, often resulting in infections and scarring, as a result of diminished collagen production essential for tissue repair. |
11 | Anaemia | The development of anaemia is marked by low haemoglobin levels and fatigue caused by reduced iron absorption and synthesis of blood components. |
12 | Scurvy | Severe vitamin C deficiency can lead to scurvy, characterised by severe gum disease, tooth loss, skin haemorrhages, joint pain, and general weakness. |
13 | Bleeding from Nose and Gums | Frequent nosebleeds and gum bleeding due to weakened blood vessels and tissues, which are more prone to damage and rupture. |
14 | Subperiosteal Haemorrhage | Bleeding between joints and bones causes significant pain and swelling, often leading to movement limitations and joint damage. |
15 | Loose Teeth | Due to weakened gums and connective tissues, teeth become loose and may eventually fall out, making oral hygiene and dental health difficult to maintain. |
16 | Shortness of Breath | Breathing difficulties result from anaemia and reduced oxygen transport in the blood, impacting overall stamina and physical capabilities. |
17 | Brain Haemorrhage | In extreme cases, untreated deficiency can lead to life-threatening conditions, such as bleeding around the brain, due to severely weakened blood vessels and impaired clotting. |
Reasons that Cause Vitamin C Deficiency
As mentioned, the primary cause of vitamin C deficiency is an imbalanced diet. The human body does not naturally synthesise vitamin C, which must be supplied via external sources. This primarily concerns food intake, including vegetables, fruits, and fortified foods.
This is why most vitamin C deficiency causes involve an improper diet. Some of these are as follows:
A diet lacking vitamin C-rich fresh vegetables and fruits
A restrictive diet due to health conditions like weak digestive system, allergies, etc.
Mental health issues and other disorders like anorexia
Old age
Besides, there can be several other causes for the lack of vitamin C. These include treatments, health conditions, and habits that limit the body’s ability to absorb nutrients. Some of them are as follows:
Ulcerative colitis
Intake of illegal drugs and high amounts of alcohol
Chemotherapy
Crohn’s disease
Smoking
Hyperthyroidism
Pregnancy
Prolonged diarrhoea
Surgery
These factors can lead to long-term vitamin C deficiency, which might lead to detrimental side effects.
Diagnosis of Vitamin C Deficiency
Diagnosis of vitamin C deficiency entails the combination of clinical evaluation and some specific tests to ascertain its level in the body. Different approaches are used by health practitioners to identify and investigate this condition, such as:
Physical Examination
A physical examination is conducted to thorough check for symptoms such as bruising, bleeding gums, and scurvy manifestations.
Dietary Assessment
Evaluation of a patient’s diet to establish any potential nutritional gaps, emphasising the intake of foods rich in vitamin C.
Blood Tests
Liquid samples are tested to determine the plasma levels of this substance, hence enabling the identification of deficiencies or concentration levels.
Imaging Studies
These involve using X-rays or other imaging techniques to detect complications like subperiosteal haemorrhage in severe cases.
Medical History Review
Analysis of the patient's medical history, including any conditions or medications that may affect nutrient absorption.
Best Food Sources to Overcome Vitamin C Deficiency
Ensure a diet rich in vitamin C to prevent and address deficiency. Below are the top food sources, including fruits, vegetables, and other eatables, that provide high levels of this essential nutrient.
Fruits to Overcome Vitamin C Deficiency
Fruits are excellent sources of vitamin C, offering a range of options from citrus fruits to berries and tropical fruits. Here are a few of them:
Sr.No. |
Fruits | Nutritional Value (Vitamin C per 100g) |
1 | Kiwi | 92.7 mg |
2 | Lemons | 53.0 mg |
3 | Strawberries | 58.8 mg |
4 | Papaya | 60.9 mg |
5 | Blackberries | 21.0 mg |
6 | Guava | 228.3 mg |
7 | Oranges | 53.2 mg |
8 | Mango | 36.7 mg |
9 | Lychee | 71.5 mg |
10 | Pineapple | 47.8 mg |
Vegetables to Overcome Vitamin C Deficiency
Vegetables are another excellent source of Vitamin C, with options ranging from leafy greens to cruciferous vegetables. Several options include:
Sr.No. |
Vegetables | Nutritional Value (Vitamin C per 100g) |
11 | Carrots | 5.9 mg |
12 | Spinach | 28.1 mg |
13 | Bell Peppers | 127.7 mg (Red) |
14 | Tomatoes | 13.7 mg |
15 | Broccoli | 89.2 mg |
16 | Cabbage | 36.6 mg |
17 | Potatoes | 19.7 mg |
18 | Brussels Sprouts | 85.0 mg |
19 | Kale | 93.4 mg |
20 | Cauliflower | 48.2 mg |
21 | Sweet Potatoes | 2.4 mg |
22 | Peas | 40.0 mg |
Other Eatables to Overcome Vitamin C Deficiency
Apart from fruits and vegetables, other eatables also provide significant amounts of Vitamin C, which can be added to a balanced diet to maintain adequate levels, such as:
Sr. No. |
Food Items | Nutritional Value (Vitamin C per 100g) |
23 | Oysters | 30.0 mg |
24 | Paprika | 76.4 mg |
25 | Chilli Peppers | 143.7 mg |
Note that vitamin C can disintegrate under the effect of heat during storage. This is why it is advisable to consume as many raw and fresh fruits and vegetables as possible.
On the other hand, if you have already been diagnosed with a vitamin C deficiency, you will need to consult a dietician who might suggest the following treatment methods:
- Oral vitamin C supplements
- Vitamin C injections
The healthcare professional will recommend the ideal dosage, depending on your deficiency level. He/she will also prescribe a diet chart to speed up recovery.
How Much Vitamin C Do You Need Daily?
The RDA for vitamin C differs according to one’s age and gender. 90 mg per day is needed for men, while women should have 75 mg daily. If someone smokes or is stressed out, 35mg more can be required daily.
The recommended dose for children varies between 15 and 75 mg, depending on their age. Pregnant and breastfeeding women require up to 120 mg daily to support their increased metabolic needs.
Side Effects of Vitamin C Deficiency
Unchecked early symptoms of lack of vitamin C can include some of the following persistent health issues:
Bleeding from nose and gums
Subperiosteal haemorrhage or bleeding between joints
Loose teeth
Improper and delayed wound healing
Weak bones
Other severe persistent symptoms due to lack of vitamin C include fever, nerve problems, shortness of breath, and convulsions.
Individuals suffering from the same might be unable to identify these due to a specific nutrient deficiency. However, a lack of vitamin C can lead to severe diseases.
Diseases Caused Due to Vitamin C Deficiency
The deficiency of vitamin C causes scurvy. The following symptoms characterise Scurvy:
Gingivitis or gum disease
Loss of teeth
Skin problems
Anaemia
Weak immunity
Shortness of breath
Corkscrew hairs
These signs occur along with the previously mentioned vitamin C deficiency symptoms.
In the long run, lack of vitamin C causes untreated scurvy, which can be life-threatening and may lead to the following conditions:
Severe jaundice
Neuropathy
Haemolysis or destruction of RBCs
Generalised oedema
Since pregnant women are at increased risk of developing this deficiency due to the body’s high nutrient requirement, scurvy in them may affect foetal brain development.
To prevent the adverse eventualities of this nutrient deficiency, you must ensure all necessary precautions are followed, including a balanced diet.
Treatment for Vitamin C Deficiency
Addressing vitamin C deficiency typically involves dietary changes and medical interventions to restore adequate nutrient levels. Below are the common treatments:
Treatment Method |
Description |
Oral Vitamin C Supplements | Tablets or capsules containing vitamin C, typically prescribed to boost levels quickly, with doses ranging from 500 mg to 1,000 mg per day, depending on deficiency severity. |
Vitamin C-Rich Diet | Incorporating more vitamin C-rich foods, such as citrus fruits, berries, and green vegetables, helps to naturally increase vitamin C intake and prevent recurrence. |
Vitamin C Injections | For severe cases or when oral supplements are ineffective, intramuscular or intravenous injections are administered to raise blood vitamin C levels rapidly. |
Multivitamin Supplements | Multivitamin preparations containing vitamin C ensure a balanced intake of essential vitamins and minerals for those with broader nutritional deficiencies. |
Regular Monitoring | Continuous assessment of vitamin C levels and adjustments to dietary or supplement intake are essential for maintaining optimal levels and preventing future deficiencies. |
How Long Does it Take to Fix Vitamin C Deficiency?
Vitamin C deficiency patients can observe significant improvement in their health condition after starting to replenish the nutrient.
However, if you are wondering exactly how long it will take to fix vitamin C deficiency, here is a list of the symptoms and the probable time they might take to disappear.
Symptom Resolution Timeline |
Symptoms |
24 hours | Pain, brain fog, fatigue, anorexia, and lethargy. |
1-2 weeks | Severe weakness, bleeding, and bruising. |
3 months | Complete recovery. |
Note that this timeline may vary across individuals, depending on the extent of deficiency and other health conditions.
However, permanent damages like severe tooth deformation or tooth loss are irreversible. This is why you should prioritise taking good care of your health to prevent vitamin C deficiency before it is too late.
Who is at Risk of Suffering from Vitamin C Deficiency?
Some vulnerable groups may develop vitamin C deficiency because of various issues, including dietary habits, lifestyles, or medical conditions that restrict vitamin C intake in the body. Recognition of such risk factors is imperative for targeted prevention and early intervention.