Doctors are cautioning about the resurgence of a condition caused by a severe lack of a vitamin, which is linked to a commonly used pill in the UK. Specialists at the Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital in Western Australia have highlighted that proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), like omeprazole, may induce the life-threatening condition known as scurvy.
If left untreated, scurvy can lead to organ failure, extensive internal bleeding, infections, and ultimately, death. In the past, it claimed the lives of numerous sailors who did not have access to fresh fruits and vegetables during prolonged sea journeys.
Approximately 15% of the UK population takes PPIs, with England alone seeing 73 million doses annually, constituting 6% of all prescriptions. The medical professionals, in a report published in the British Medical Journal Case Reports, underscored that PPIs can hinder the absorption of vitamin C in the body, potentially causing scurvy. They detailed the case of a man in his 50s who developed scurvy due to PPI use.
The initial symptom manifested as a red-brown pinpoint rash that emerged on his lower extremities and extended to his hands and arms. Blood tests revealed a severe deficiency in vitamin C and low levels of other essential nutrients. Following treatment with daily doses of vitamins C and D3, along with folic acid and multivitamins, the man’s health improved significantly.
The patient had been skipping meals, lacking fruit and vegetable consumption, and had undergone stomach surgery for weight loss. After commencing daily vitamin C (1000mg), vitamin D3, folic acid, and multivitamin supplements, the rash disappeared, and his vitamin C levels normalized.
Dr. Andrew Dermawan from Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital emphasized the rising instances of malnutrition post-stomach surgery and the economic challenges that hinder individuals from affording nutritious foods.
PPIs are commonly prescribed for indigestion and stomach ulcers to protect the stomach from the adverse effects of other medications. They are also available over the counter.
Scurvy stems from a deficiency in vitamin C, crucial for collagen production that maintains healthy skin, blood vessels, and connective tissues. Without sufficient vitamin C, the body’s repair mechanisms are impaired, leading to various symptoms.
The onset of scurvy symptoms occurs after prolonged vitamin C deficiency, typically over several months. Symptoms include:
Scurvy is easily treatable with vitamin C supplements or by consuming foods rich in vitamin C, such as:
Symptoms often improve markedly within days to weeks of treatment. However, if left untreated for an extended period, scurvy can result in severe complications or even death.