Pellagra

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Pellagra is a disease caused by a severe deficiency of vitamin B3 (niacin) in the diet is and characterized by skin eruptions, digestive and nervous system disturbances, and eventual mental deterioration.

Symptoms of pellagra include diarrhea, dementia, and dermatitis; redness and swelling of tongue and lips; burning of the mouth, pharynx, and esophagus; abdominal distention and pain or discomfort in the abdominal area; poor digestion; vomiting; weakness; weight loss; stress and irritability; poor tolerance to cold; and impaired memory, confusion, and paranoia. In some cases, the skin can also turn dark, becoming thicker, rougher, and very dry.

It can be due to alcoholism, a diet high in maize (Indian corn), severe diarrhea, parasites, cirrhosis of the liver, post-surgical nutrient deficiencies, stress, genetic predisposition, and consumption of junk foods, which are very low in B vitamins and high in refined sugars that deplete B vitamins.

Note: Before a diagnosis of pellagra can be made, you must first be sure that tongue and lip redness and swelling is from pellagra and not due to other vitamin deficiencies or diseases.