BERI BERI : VITAMIN B DEFICIENCY

Beri beri is a disease which is caused by the deficiency of vitamin B ( Thiamine ) .  It may be wet or dry . Wet beri beri affects the cardiovascular system whereas dry beri beri affects the nervous system . It may be seen in the infants of 2-4 months of age where it is called infantile beri beri .

 

CAUSES

Deficiency of vitamin B in diet which may occur during pregnancy or breastfeeding

 Liver disease

Alcoholism

Goiter

Eating over cooked food

Eating stale fruits and vegetables

SIGNS / SYMPTOMS

Anorexia

Pain in abdomen

Nausea

Irritability

Loss of sensations in the hands and feet

Joint pains

Muscular pains                                        

Fatigue

Shortness of breadth

Increased heart rate

Paralysis of the limbs

PREVENTION

Eating fruits , meat , fish and green vegetables

Intake of milk

Use of wheat and rice

Use of balanced diet