Malnutrition

Malnutrition
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Synonyms	Undernutrition
Pronounce	N/A
Field	Nutrition, general medicine, pediatrics, geriatrics
Symptoms	Fatigue, dizziness, weight loss, muscle weakness, weakened immune system, swollen and bleeding gums, decaying teeth, slowed reaction times, growth problems in children, anemia
Complications	N/A
Onset	Can occur at any age, often seen in poverty-stricken areas and in the elderly
Duration	Can be short-term or long-term depending on the cause and if treatment is received
Types	N/A
Causes	Insufficient, excessive or unbalanced diet, inability to absorb foods, diseases, socio-economic and living conditions
Risks	Poverty, lack of access to quality food, certain diseases, age (children and elderly are at higher risk), pregnancy
Diagnosis	Based on physical examination, dietary history, body mass index (BMI), and various laboratory tests
Differential diagnosis	N/A
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Dietary changes, nutritional supplements, treating underlying conditions
Medication	Vitamin and mineral supplements
Prognosis	N/A
Frequency	N/A
Deaths	N/A

Malnutrition is a significant global health concern that occurs when a person's diet does not provide the necessary amount of nutrients for the body to function effectively, or when the body cannot adequately absorb the nutrients from food.

Symptoms

Symptoms of malnutrition can vary greatly depending on the type and severity of nutrient deficiency. Common signs include fatigue, dizziness, unintended weight loss, muscle weakness, and a weakened immune system. More severe symptoms can include swollen and bleeding gums, decaying teeth, slowed reaction times, and, in children, slowed growth and development.

Causes

Malnutrition can result from an insufficient or excessive diet, an unbalanced diet, or an inability to properly absorb nutrients from food. This can be due to various factors, including poverty, socio-economic conditions, lack of access to quality food, certain diseases and conditions, and age (children and the elderly are at higher risk).

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of malnutrition involves a comprehensive evaluation that includes a physical examination, dietary history, calculation of body mass index (BMI), and various laboratory tests. This can help identify any nutrient deficiencies and determine the underlying cause of malnutrition.

Treatment

The primary goal of treatment for malnutrition is to address the underlying cause and restore nutritional balance. This can involve dietary changes, nutritional supplements, and treatment of underlying conditions. In severe cases, hospitalization may be required.

See Also

• Nutrient deficiency
• Starvation
• Obesity
• Vitamin deficiency
• Protein-energy malnutrition