Gopalan, in his paper published in 1940s has stated that outbreaks of “Burning Feet Syndrome” have been noted in many malnourished individuals, particularly in inmates of the jail. It has also been reported in prisoners of war in World War II. Also known as Grierson-Gopalan Syndrome, although there can be multiple causes, it can occur due to deficiency of a particular vitamin. In this article, we will learn about what is Burning Feet Syndrome and the vitamin deficiency that can lead to this condition.
What is Burning Feet Syndrome?
Burning Feet Syndrome is a set of clinical symptoms characterized by a burning sensation which is usually described as hot and painful. The peripheral nerves are involved in this condition. It can be caused by a disease that involves the nerves like Diabetes Mellitus, HIV, and Chronic Alcohol Consumption as well as due to deficiency of a certain vitamin in the diet.
Which Vitamin Deficiency Causes Burning Feet Syndrome?
Although there are many causes of Burning Feet Syndrome, among the vitamins, it is Vitamin B5 or Pantothenic Acid, the deficiency of which results in burning feet syndrome. As the vitamin is ubiquitous in the food supply, deficiency is rare and can occur only if the individual is extremely malnourished or is taking antagonists specific to the vitamin. So, in this condition, the other causes of Burning Feet Syndrome must be ruled out first. However, if Pathothenic Acid deficiency is suspected to be the cause, it can be confirmed by estimation of Pathonethic Acid in urine, the value of which will be lower than the normal range if the individual’s diet is deficient in that vitamin.
Burning Feet Syndrome Symptoms
No matter what is the cause behind it, the symptoms of Burning Feet Syndrome include:
- Burning Sensation of feet and soles that aggravates during night
- Numbness of Feet
- Pins and Needles like pricking sensation
- Heaviness of the feet
- Redness of the skin in feet along with warmth
- A dull aching sensation
Treating Burning Feet Syndrome due to Pantothenic Acid Deficiency
This condition can be treated easily by taking Vitamin B5 supplements or B-Complex Supplements. Certain food sources that are rich in Pantothenic Acid that can be included in the diet to overcome deficiency include:
- Egg Yolks
- Liver of animals
- Yeast
- Whole Grains
- Leafy Vegetables
It is to be remembered, if the symptoms persist or worsen over time, despite replenishment of vitamin deficiencies, one must visit a physician to find out other possible causes, as often this condition can be the initial sign of other medical conditions like diabetes, neuropathies which can lead to irreversible damage of nerves in the long run.
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