Beriberi is a rare but serious disease caused by a severe thiamine (vitamin B1) deficiency. Historically, it was common in populations relying on polished white rice, which lacks thiamine. Less common in developed nations today, it still affects certain groups globally and can lead to severe health complications.
Causes and Types of Beriberi
Thiamine plays a role in the body’s energy metabolism, assisting carbohydrate breakdown and nervous system function. The body does not store large amounts of thiamine, so continuous dietary intake is necessary to prevent deficiency, with stores potentially depleting in as little as two to three weeks.
Beriberi manifests in different forms, primarily affecting the cardiovascular or nervous system. Wet beriberi mainly impacts the cardiovascular system, causing circulation issues and fluid retention. This form can be particularly severe.
Dry beriberi primarily affects the nervous system, involving nerve degeneration. Infantile beriberi occurs in infants, usually those breastfed by mothers who are thiamine-deficient.
Identifying the Symptoms
Wet beriberi symptoms include cardiovascular distress. Symptoms include shortness of breath, rapid heart rate, and swelling in the lower legs and feet due to fluid buildup. In severe instances, this can progress to heart failure.
Dry beriberi symptoms reflect nerve damage. Symptoms include muscle weakness, tingling or numbness in the limbs, and difficulty walking. In more advanced cases, muscle paralysis may occur.
Infantile beriberi presents with signs in infants. Signs include vomiting, rapid heart rate, and difficulty breathing. In severe cases, infants may develop heart failure or experience convulsions.
Treatment and Prevention
Diagnosing beriberi involves physical examination, symptom review, and blood tests to measure thiamine levels. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment prevent irreversible damage to the heart and nervous system.
The primary treatment for beriberi involves thiamine supplementation, administered orally or intravenously depending on deficiency severity. If complications like heart failure or nerve damage have developed, additional supportive care may be necessary.
Prevention strategies for beriberi focus on ensuring adequate thiamine intake through diet. Foods rich in thiamine include whole grains, legumes, nuts, meat, and fish. Limiting alcohol consumption also reduces the risk, as excessive alcohol can interfere with thiamine absorption and storage.
Populations at higher risk include individuals with alcoholism, those who have undergone bariatric surgery, and people with certain chronic illnesses like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis that impair nutrient absorption. Awareness of these factors allows for proactive prevention.