Guest guest Posted December 29, 2007 Report Share Posted December 29, 2007 Full article: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000339.htm Symptoms of wet beriberi include: a.. Swelling of the lower legs b.. Increased heart rate c.. Lung congestion d.. Enlarged heart related to congestive heart failure e.. Shortness of breath with activity f.. Awakening at night short of breath Exams and Tests Return to top A physical examination may show signs of congestive heart failure, including swelling in both the lower legs, fluid in the lungs, rapid heartbeat, and difficulty breathing with neck veins that stick out. A person with late-stage beriberi may be confused or have memory loss and delusions. The person may be less able to sense vibration. A neurological exam may show signs of decreased reflexes, changes in the person's walk, coordination problems, drooping of the eyelids, and other changes. The following tests may be done: a.. Blood tests to measure the amount of thiamine in the blood b.. Urine tests to see if thiamine is passing through urine Treatment Return to top The goal of treatment is to replace the thiamine that the person's body is lacking. This is done with thiamine supplements. Thiamine supplements are given through a shot (injection) or taken by mouth. Other types of vitamins may also be recommended. Blood tests may be done after the person is given thiamine supplements to see how well they are responding to the medicine. Outlook (Prognosis) Return to top Untreated, beriberi is often deadly. With treatment, symptoms usually improve rapidly. Heart damage is usually reversible and is not permanent. Full recovery is expected. However, if acute heart failure has already occurred, the person's outlook is poor. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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