beriberiä

Beriberi is a disease caused by a deficiency of thiamine, also known as vitamin B1. Thiamine is essential for carbohydrate metabolism, nerve function, and muscle function.

There are two main forms of beriberi: wet beriberi and dry beriberi. Wet beriberi affects the cardiovascular system and can lead to symptoms such as rapid heart rate, shortness of breath, and swelling in the lower legs. It can progress to heart failure. Dry beriberi primarily affects the nervous system, causing symptoms like numbness and tingling in the hands and feet, difficulty walking, and paralysis. Cognitive impairments such as confusion and memory loss can also occur.

Beriberi is most commonly seen in populations that rely heavily on polished rice as a staple food, as the thiamine-rich outer layers of the rice grain are removed during the polishing process. Other causes include chronic alcoholism, malnutrition, and certain medical conditions that impair thiamine absorption or increase its excretion.

Diagnosis is usually based on clinical symptoms and a history of dietary risk factors. Blood tests can confirm low thiamine levels. Treatment involves thiamine supplementation, typically administered orally or intravenously depending on the severity. Dietary changes to include thiamine-rich foods such as whole grains, legumes, nuts, and pork are also recommended. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent irreversible neurological damage or heart problems. Prevention strategies focus on ensuring adequate thiamine intake through a balanced diet or food fortification.