SEA SCURVY Meaning and
Definition
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Sea scurvy, also known as "salt scurvy" or "naval scurvy," is a medical condition caused by vitamin C deficiency that primarily affected sailors during long sea voyages in the past. It is caused by a lack of fresh fruits and vegetables, which are rich sources of vitamin C, in a sailor's diet. The condition is characterized by symptoms including fatigue, weakness, swollen and bleeding gums, joint and muscle pain, anemia, and the formation of small red dots on the skin.
The absence of sufficient vitamin C in the body hinders the synthesis of collagen, a protein that is vital for strengthening the connective tissues, maintaining healthy skin, and aiding in the wound healing process. The deficiency weakens the blood vessels and causes them to leak, leading to the characteristic gum bleeding and skin discoloration. Musculoskeletal symptoms may also occur due to the collagen disruption.
The adoption of improved dietary practices, such as the inclusion of citrus fruits, proved to be a successful remedy to prevent and cure sea scurvy. The British Royal Navy, in particular, implemented the regular supply of lemon or lime juice to sailors, hence the term "limey" to refer to British sailors. This practice significantly reduced the incidence of sea scurvy during long voyages.
With advances in nutrition and transportation, sea scurvy is now a relatively rare condition and is more commonly associated with individuals with poor dietary habits, limited access to fresh produce, and certain medical conditions that hinder vitamin C absorption or utilization within the body.
Common Misspellings for SEA SCURVY
- aea scurvy
- zea scurvy
- xea scurvy
- dea scurvy
- eea scurvy
- wea scurvy
- swa scurvy
- ssa scurvy
- sda scurvy
- sra scurvy
- s4a scurvy
- s3a scurvy
- sez scurvy
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- sew scurvy
- seq scurvy
- sea acurvy
- sea zcurvy
- sea xcurvy
- sea dcurvy
Etymology of SEA SCURVY
The term "sea scurvy" is derived from two elements: "sea" and "scurvy".
1. Sea: The word "sea" originates from the Old English word "sǣ", which was later influenced by Middle Dutch and Latin. It refers to the large body of saltwater that covers most of the Earth's surface. Its origins can be traced back to Proto-Germanic and Proto-Indo-European languages.
2. Scurvy: The term "scurvy" comes from the Late Middle English word "scorbutus", which has its roots in the medieval Latin word "scorbutus" and the Old Norse word "skorbútr". Scurvy is a disease caused by a deficiency of vitamin C, characterized by weakness, anemia, gum disease, and skin hemorrhages.
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