Beriberi is a condition of the nervous system that is caused when not enough thiamine (also known as Vitamin B1) is included in the diet. Thiamine is what breaks down the glucose and is also located on the membranes of neurons. There are dire consequences of having this condition which include complications of the gastrointestinal, muscular, nervous, cardiovascular systems.
There are two types of beriberi, one being wet which directly affects the cardiovascular system and the other being dry which directly affects the nervous system. The main symptoms for either of these conditions include fatigue and severe lethargy. Other common side effects which may be seen in patients include weight loss, weakness and pain in the limbs, irregular heart beat at times, emotional disturbances, and an impaired sensory perception.
There are also symptoms that generally are only associated with the particular type of beriberi. Wet beriberi may have the patient waking up at night unable to catch their breath as well as inducing an increased heart rate. There is a shortness of breath while taking part in activity and a swelling seen in the lower part of the legs. This type, since it affects the heart, can be fatal as it eventually causes heart failure and weakened capillary walls. Dry beriberi can cause vomiting, tingling sensations, pain, strange movements in the eyes, numbness in the hands and feet, loss of muscles function in the lower part of the legs and difficulty walking. This can cause partial paralysis over time as well as damage to the peripheral nerves.
To diagnose either of these conditions there are tests that are used. Generally a neurological exam is completed to check for problems with coordination, a reduction in reflexes, changes in the gait, and to check for a drooping in the eyelids. Blood and urine tests are completed to check for levels of thiamine. The physical examination completed looks for difficulty in breathing, any enlargement of the heart, any increase in the heartbeat, swelling in the lower legs, and fluid that may be in the lungs. There are also tests performed to check for possible signs of memory loss, confusion and loss of sensitivity to vibrations. These signs may be seen in those that are at the late stages of beriberi.
The treatment for this condition basically consists of measures to increase the amount of thiamine that the body is taking in and to replace that which the body has lost. Thiamine shots can be administered or tablets can be taken orally. The patient may also be given other supplements. Blood tests will be taken during the course of treatment to see if it is effective. Generally after one shot of thiamine hydrochloride is given, there is an improvement within hours of receiving it. In cases where this is not available, it is a must that the patient is fed with foods that are high in thiamine such as whole grain brown bread, unrefined cereals, legumes, green vegetables, fruit, milk and fresh meat. While the progression is slower in this fashion, it still is quite effective and will lead to recovery.
