Protein malnutrition is caused by a lack of healthy protein in the diet and can cause symptoms such as swelling, fatigue, and diarrhea. Kwashiorkor and marasmus are two main classifications. It is most common in poor regions and can be prevented with education and access to food and healthcare. Treatment involves a carefully planned diet and can be done on an outpatient basis.
Protein malnutrition occurs when there is an extreme lack of healthy protein in the diet. It is a common condition in countries affected by famine or drought, although even a neglected child or helpless adult in a first world country can succumb to the problem. Malnutrition can cause a range of symptoms, including swelling in the extremities, diarrhea, fatigue and gastric distension. In most cases, protein malnutrition can be cured with a carefully planned diet that gradually increases the patient’s protein and calorie intake.
There are two main classifications of protein malnutrition. Kwashiorkor refers to a diet that is extremely low in protein, although a person may still consume a close to average amount of calories from other sources. Marasmus is a deficiency of both protein and calories and comes close to resembling total starvation. Both types are more common in young children and the elderly, and both can cause serious health consequences if inadequate diets persist.
Protein malnutrition is predominant in very poor regions of the world. People who don’t have access to consistent food supplies, health care, or educational resources are at greatest risk. In developed countries, protein malnutrition can affect people who are unable to care for themselves, particularly infants and nursing home residents. Because protein malnutrition is entirely preventable, many international organizations are working to end the famine and educate citizens about the widespread problem.
Symptoms of malnutrition depend on a person’s age and the severity of the condition. Children often suffer from frequent infections, have distended stomachs, and fall short of average height and muscle mass. A person of any age with protein malnutrition may have a widespread rash, diarrhea, extreme fatigue, and swelling in the hands and feet. Without treatment, an individual may go into shock or slip into a coma.
When a doctor suspects malnutrition based on a patient’s physical condition, they can perform a series of diagnostic tests to determine the nature of the problem. Blood tests usually reveal low protein, hypoglycemia, and anemia. Stool and urine samples are analyzed for the presence of parasites and infectious bacteria and viruses.
Treatment decisions are made based on the severity of the patient’s symptoms. People at risk of hypoglycemia or shock are immediately hospitalized so that doctors can provide intravenous fluids and medications. People who are malnourished but not in immediate danger of shock or coma can usually be treated on an outpatient basis. Doctors and nutritionists can outline a very specific diet plan to provide to healthcare professionals. Small meals containing high levels of carbohydrates and fat are introduced, and protein is added once a person begins to regain energy and bloating subsides. With proper care, most patients are able to fully recover from symptoms.
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