The result of severe and prolonged deficiency of vitamin B1 especially where the diet is high in carbohydrate and poor in vitamin B1.
A deficiency disease caused by the absence or insufficient levels of B-complex vitamins in the diet.
A disease due to vitamin B1 deficiency, marked by inflammation of nerves, heart problems and oedema.
A disease caused by a deficiency of thiamine and characterized by nerve disorders, weakness, mental disturbances, dermatitis, and heart failure.
A dietary deficiency disease that affects the nervous system and is characterized by degeneration of nervous tissue and muscle weakness. Complications include heart disease, edema, and paralysis. It is the result of thiamine deficiency.
A disease of the nervous system caused by lack of vitamin B1.
A disease caused by deficiency of thiamine ( vitamin B, ) and characterized by disturbed nervous function and loss of muscle power.
Thiamin deficiency disease characterized by neural disorders, accumulation of fluid in the heart sac, impaired heart action, anorexia, and muscle pain. Table 15 gives the characteristics of this disease. It is often seen in alcoholism. The most serious form of thiamin deficiency in alcoholics is Wernicke’s syndrome. It is characterized by ophthalmoplegia, sixth nerve palsy, nystagmus, ptosis, ataxia, confusion, and coma, which may terminate in death. Often the confusional state persists after treatment of the acute thiamin deficiency. This is known as Korsakoff’s psychosis.
The deficiency syndrome of thiamin (vitamin B1) is known as beriberi, which can have three different forms and include muscular weakness and wasting as well as cardiovascular abnormalities. While physical activity will increase the demands for energy intake and thus thiamin, it is not likely that an athlete will suffer from beriberi.
Disease, resulting from a deficiency of vitamin B1 (thiamine), characterized by appetite and weight loss, disturbed nerve function, fluid retention, and heart failure. The disease is common in parts of Asia, particularly in areas where the diet is limited to highly milled rice, but is rare in the United States. Also called in endemic forms, kakke disease.
A disease caused by thiamine (vitamin B1) deficiency in the diet. Severe deficiency may cause nervous system or circulatory problems, including paralysis or heart failure.
A disease caused by a deficiency in thiamin. Thiamin (vitamin B1) is essential for energy production from carbohydrates and for nerve and muscle function. It is found in foods such as pork, liver, leafy green vegetables, whole grains, and enriched breads and cereals. Beriberi frequently occurs in Asia, where it is caused by a diet limited to white rice. Rare occurrences in t he United States are usually associated with stress-related conditions such as infection, hypothyroidism, alcoholism, pregnancy, or breast-feeding.
A nutritional disorder due to deficiency of vitamin B1 (thiamin). It is widespread in rice-eating communities in which the diet is based on polished rice, from which the thiamin-rich seed coat has been removed. Beriberi takes two forms: wet beriberi, in which there is an accumulation of tissue fluid (‘edema), and dry beriberi, in which there is extreme emaciation. There may be nervous degeneration in both forms of the disease and death from heart failure is often the outcome.
Beriberi (Singhalese: beri = extreme weakness.) Formerly a major health problem in many Asian countries, beriberi is a nutritional deficiency disease resulting from prolonged deficiency of the water-soluble vitamin, thiamine (vitamin B1). A major public-health problem in countries where highly polished rice constitutes the staple diet, beriberi also occurs sporadically in alcoholics (wernicke’s encephalopathy) and in people suffering from chronic malabsorptive states. Clinical symptoms include weakness, paralysis, especially the hands and feet (associated with sensory loss, particularly in the legs), and ‘burning sensations’ in the feet (dry beriberi). Alternatively, it is accompanied by oedema, palpitations and a dilated heart (wet beriberi). Treatment consists of large doses of vitamin B1 — orally or intramuscularly; a diet containing other vitamins of the B group; and rest.
A disease marked by peripheral neurologic, cerebral, and cardiovascular abnormalities and caused by a lack of thiamine. Early deficiency produces fatigue, irritability, poor memory, sleep disturbances, chest pain, anorexia, abdominal discomfort, and constipation. Beriberi is endemic in Asia, the Philippines, and other islands of the Pacific.
Encounter a nutritional disorder caused by insufficient intake of thiamine (vitamin B1) in the diet. Thiamine, which is abundant in wholemeal cereals, meat, green vegetables, potatoes, and nuts, plays a vital role in carbohydrate metabolism. It is indispensable for the proper functioning of the brain, nerves, and muscles, including the heart muscle. In developed countries, this condition is primarily observed among individuals who are malnourished or have an extremely limited dietary variety, such as alcoholics. The lack of thiamine, resulting from inadequate dietary intake, impairs the optimal functioning of crucial bodily systems. Awareness and appropriate dietary practices are essential in preventing and addressing this disorder.
The illness manifests in two distinct forms known as “dry” and “wet” beriberi. Dry beriberi primarily impacts the nerves and skeletal muscles due to thiamine deficiency. Common symptoms include numbness, a burning sensation in the legs, and muscle wasting. In severe cases, individuals may experience virtual paralysis, extreme emaciation, and confinement to a bedridden state. The debilitating effects of dry beriberi underscore the critical role of thiamine in maintaining the health and functionality of the nervous system and muscles. Timely intervention through proper nutrition and medical support is crucial in mitigating the progression and severity of this condition.
In wet beriberi, the primary concern revolves around heart failure, which arises from the heart’s inability to efficiently pump blood throughout the body. Consequently, fluid accumulation occurs, resulting in edema (swelling) primarily in the legs, and potentially in the trunk and face as well. Additional symptoms of wet beriberi encompass diminished appetite, rapid pulse rate, and breathlessness. Untreated cases of wet beriberi may progress to worsening heart failure, posing a significant risk of mortality. The impact on cardiovascular function highlights the vital role that thiamine plays in maintaining a healthy heart and circulatory system. Timely intervention, including thiamine supplementation and appropriate medical management, is crucial in improving outcomes for individuals affected by wet beriberi.
Beriberi is effectively treated through the administration of thiamine, either orally or via injection, which typically leads to a complete recovery. The replenishment of thiamine levels in the body is crucial for addressing the underlying deficiency and reversing the symptoms of the illness. In addition to thiamine supplementation, adopting a long-term improvement in dietary habits is essential to prevent the recurrence of beriberi. A well-balanced and nutritious diet that includes thiamine-rich foods is key in maintaining optimal health and avoiding future deficiencies. By combining thiamine treatment with dietary adjustments, individuals can achieve a comprehensive approach to combat beriberi and promote lasting well-being.
A condition resulting from a complete absence of vitamin B1 in one’s diet. It leads to a type of peripheral neuritis, characterized by swelling throughout the body, severe weakness, paralysis, mental disturbances, heart failure, and ultimately, death.