Just my 2 cents

Scurvy is a disease which is consequential of deficiency in vitamin C intake. Vitamin C is responsible for the synthesis of collagen in the human body. Formation of spots on the skin, fragile gums and bleeding of mucous membranes characterize scurvy. Also there is a distinct paleness in the person along with immobility and depression. This disease is most common among people whose diet doesn’t constitute adequate vitamin C.

Dark purple spots on the legs, loss of teeth, bleeding of nose; diarrhea, eye disorder and scars all over the body are general symptoms of scurvy. There will also be a general loss of appetite and reduction in body weight.

Prevention of scurvy can be made possible by the inclusion of vitamin C in the diet. Citrus fruits like oranges and lemons are richly endowed with vitamin C. The consumption of these kinds of fruits would help in keeping scurvy at bay. Other vegetables like broccoli, spinach and carrots are also rich in Vitamin C.

Consumption of 300-1000 milligrams of ascorbic acid is imperative for the treatment of this disease. Intake of raw vegetables is also extremely beneficial for the treatment of scurvy. Indian gooseberry and strawberry are also good sources of Vitamin C.

Skin infection which manifests itself into a red or brown patch resembling a ring is called ringworm. Quite paradoxically, ringworm is not characterized by a worm but by parasitic fungi which is called dermatophytosis. This infection can strike any part of the body. The fungi feed on the epidermis and other dead cells of the body. This infection spreads easily in warm and moist conditions as they are most conducive for the growth of the fungi.

Ringworm is slightly contagious in nature. Contraction of ringworm is possible by skin to skin contact. Susceptibility of contracting the disease from animals is also possible. Presence of a couple of elevated itchy patches with a reddish tinge is the best possible symptom of ringworm. Diagnosis of this disease can be made even with the naked eye. Otherwise skin scraping proves to be an able method of detecting ringworm. Microscopic examination gives conclusive information about the presence of ringworm.

The best mode of treatment is by administering topical drugs which contain miconazole, clotrimazole and butenafine. Creams and lotions which have the aforesaid chemicals as ingredients will also effect good cure. Prevention of ringworm can be done by maintaining good hygiene and creation of a sanitized environment. Usage of potent anti-bacterial chemicals after exposure to a moist environment keeps away ringworm. Abstinence from shared clothing and moist environment will also help in the prevention of ringworm.

Rickets is a condition in which the bones of children become brittle which can cause potential risks of fracture or bone deformation. The major perpetrator of this disease is the deficiency of Calciferol or Vitamin D. inadequacy of calcium may also be a strong reason for formation of rickets. The occurrence of this disease in children is most prominent, largely due to the ill-effects of malnutrition and starvation. An identical condition afflicting adults is called as osteomalacia.

Infants who are lactose intolerant and unexposed to sunlight are the ones who are most vulnerable to this disease. Some of the major symptoms of rickets are brittleness of the bones, muscular weakness, and deformity of the skeletal system. There are also instances of dental ailments, stunting of growth and deformities of the pelvic region.

Diagnosis of rickets can be done by way of blood tests and biopsy of the bone. Prevention of rickets can be done by ensuring an adequate supply of vitamin D and calcium. Also ample exposure to the sunlight would do a world of good in keeping rickets away.

Treatment involves inclusion of adequate supplements of vitamin D and Calcium. Also exposure to sunlight and intake of phosphorus rich diet will help in the cure of rickets.