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Types Of Beriberi
Beriberi – Types, Causes, Symptoms and Diagnosis
There are three types of beriberi: wet, dry, and infant.
Wet beriberi is the most serious form of the disease and causes swelling in the body, especially in the legs and feet.
Dry beriberi affects the nervous system and can cause problems with walking, movement, and thinking.
Infant beriberi is a rare form of the disease that can cause death in newborns and young infants.
Symptoms Of Beriberi
The symptoms of beriberi depend on the severity of the disease. In its mildest form, beriberi may cause a feeling of general weakness and discomfort. In more serious cases, beriberi can lead to heart failure, coma, and even death. The specific symptoms of beriberi vary depending on the body system affected.
Some of the most common symptoms of beriberi include:
Feeling of general weakness and discomfort
Numbness and tingling in the hands and feet
Muscle cramps
Heart failure
Coma
Death
Symptoms of Dry BeriBeri
Dry beriberi is a vitamin B1 deficiency characterized by weight loss, muscle weakness, and nerve damage.
Symptoms of Wet BeriBeri
The most common symptoms of wet beriberi are:
-Extreme thirst
-Frequent urination
-Numbness or tingling in the hands and feet
-Muscle weakness
-Shortness of breath
Other symptoms may include:
-Heart failure
-Confusion
-Loss of consciousness
-Death
Diagnosis Of Beriberi
There are a few ways to diagnose beriberi, including a physical examination, blood tests, and imaging tests.
One common physical sign of beriberi is edema, or swelling, in the lower extremities. This swelling may be accompanied by a decrease in muscle mass. A blood test can reveal anemia, low levels of vitamin B1, and high levels of thiamine pyrophosphate, which is a byproduct of vitamin B1 metabolism. An imaging test, such as an ultrasound or MRI, may show evidence of damage to the heart or other organs.
Treatment Of Beriberi
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the treatment of beriberi will vary depending on the underlying cause of the condition. However, some common treatments for beriberi include dietary changes, supplements, and medications.
Beriberi – Types Causes Symptoms.