Beriberi Symptoms, Causes, Treatment and Types
Learn about beriberi, a vitamin B1 (thiamine) deficiency disorder. Explore its symptoms, causes, types (wet, dry, and alcohol-related), treatments, and prevention tips for better health.
Written by Dr. Shaik Abdul Kalam
Reviewed by Dr. D Bhanu Prakash MBBS, AFIH, Advanced certificate in critical care medicine, Fellowship in critical care medicine
Last updated on 1st Sep, 2025
Beriberi is a condition caused by a deficiency of vitamin B1 (thiamine), which plays a crucial role in converting food into energy and maintaining proper nerve and heart function. While beriberi is rare in developed countries due to better nutrition, it can still affect people with poor diets, chronic alcoholism, or certain medical conditions.
This article will help you understand the symptoms, causes, types, and treatment of beriberi, along with simple lifestyle tips to prevent it.
What Are the Symptoms of Beriberi?
Beriberi symptoms depend on the type—wet beriberi (affecting the heart and circulation) or dry beriberi (affecting the nervous system).
1. Wet Beriberi (Cardiovascular Symptoms)
- Swelling in legs (edema)
- Shortness of breath
- Rapid heart rate (tachycardia)
- Fatigue and weakness
- Chest pain (in severe cases)
2. Dry Beriberi (Neurological Symptoms)
Tingling or numbness in hands and feet
- Muscle weakness and pain
- Difficulty walking (loss of coordination)
- Confusion or memory problems
- Paralysis (in severe cases)
If left untreated, beriberi can lead to serious complications like heart failure or nerve damage.
What Causes Beriberi?
The main cause of beriberi is a lack of vitamin B1 (thiamine) in the diet. However, certain conditions can increase the risk:
1. Poor Diet
- Eating mostly refined grains (white rice, white flour) instead of whole grains.
- Lack of meat, beans, nuts, and fortified cereals—key sources of thiamine.
2. Alcoholism
- Alcohol interferes with thiamine absorption and storage.
- Heavy drinkers often have poor diets, worsening the deficiency.
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3. Medical Conditions
- Chronic diarrhea or vomiting (losing thiamine quickly).
- HIV/AIDS, diabetes, or hyperthyroidism (increased thiamine needs).
- Bariatric (weight-loss) surgery (reduced nutrient absorption).
4. Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
Increased thiamine demand can lead to deficiency if not met through diet.
Types of Beriberi
There are two main types, each affecting different body systems:
1. Wet Beriberi
- Affects the heart and circulatory system, leading to fluid buildup and heart failure.
- More common in acute thiamine deficiency.
2. Dry Beriberi
- Damages the nerves and muscles, causing weakness, pain, and mobility issues.
- Develops slowly over time due to chronic deficiency.
3. Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome (Alcohol-Related Beriberi)
A severe form seen in chronic alcoholics, causing confusion, memory loss, and difficulty walking.
How Is Beriberi Treated?
The good news is that beriberi can be reversed with proper treatment.
1. Thiamine Supplements
- Oral or injectable thiamine (depending on severity).
- Improvement in symptoms can be seen within hours to days.
2. Dietary Changes
Eat thiamine-rich foods:
- Whole grains (brown rice, whole wheat)
- Lean meats (pork, chicken, fish)
- Legumes (beans, lentils)
- Nuts and seeds (sunflower seeds, flaxseeds)
- Fortified cereals
3. Treating Underlying Causes
- Alcohol addiction treatment (if alcoholism is the cause).
- Managing chronic illnesses (diabetes, digestive disorders).
4. Hospital Care (Severe Cases)
IV fluids and thiamine injections for heart or neurological complications.
Prevention Tips
To avoid beriberi:
- Eat a balanced diet with whole grains, lean proteins, and nuts.
- Limit alcohol to prevent thiamine depletion.
- Breastfeeding mothers & pregnant women should ensure adequate thiamine intake.
- People with digestive disorders should monitor nutrient levels.
When to See a Doctor?
If you experience:
- Unexplained fatigue, swelling, or heart issues
- Numbness, muscle weakness, or confusion
- Consult a doctor immediately. Early treatment prevents complications.
- Need help? You can book a consultation with a specialist on Apollo 24|7 for expert advice and personalized care.
Final Thoughts
Beriberi is a preventable and treatable condition. By maintaining a nutritious diet, limiting alcohol, and addressing health conditions, you can protect yourself from thiamine deficiency. If you suspect symptoms, seek medical help early for a quick recovery.
Consult a Specialist for Personalised Advice
Consult a Specialist for Personalised Advice
Dr. Chethan T L
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
5 Years • MBBS, MD, DNB (General Medicine)
Bengaluru
Apollo Medical Center, Marathahalli, Bengaluru
Dr. Rajib Ghose
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
25 Years • MBBS
East Midnapore
VIVEKANANDA SEBA SADAN, East Midnapore
Dr. Mohamed Azeem
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
2 Years • MBBS,MD(Internal Medicine) CCEBDM
Karaikudi
Apollo Hospitals Karaikudi, Karaikudi
Dr P Jagadeesha Chandra
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
37 Years • MBBS, MD
Bengaluru
Apollo Hospitals Jayanagar, Bengaluru
Dr. Nirmal Mathew Alex
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
17 Years • MBBS, MD(general medicine)
Angamaly
Apollo Hospitals Karukutty, Angamaly
(50+ Patients)
Consult a Specialist for Personalised Advice
Dr. Chethan T L
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
5 Years • MBBS, MD, DNB (General Medicine)
Bengaluru
Apollo Medical Center, Marathahalli, Bengaluru
Dr. Rajib Ghose
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
25 Years • MBBS
East Midnapore
VIVEKANANDA SEBA SADAN, East Midnapore
Dr. Mohamed Azeem
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
2 Years • MBBS,MD(Internal Medicine) CCEBDM
Karaikudi
Apollo Hospitals Karaikudi, Karaikudi
Dr P Jagadeesha Chandra
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
37 Years • MBBS, MD
Bengaluru
Apollo Hospitals Jayanagar, Bengaluru
Dr. Nirmal Mathew Alex
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
17 Years • MBBS, MD(general medicine)
Angamaly
Apollo Hospitals Karukutty, Angamaly
(50+ Patients)