Kwashiorkar

Kwashiorkor is one of the more severe forms of protein malnutrition and is caused by inadequate protein intake. It is, therefore, a macronutrient deficiency.

Causes—

1. Areas where there is:

• Famine
• Limited food supply
• Low levels of education (do not know what is a balanced diet)
• Protein-depleted diets (starches and vegetables, with little meat and animal products)

2. Infections

3. Chronic illnesses

Symptoms And Signs–

Symptoms–

• Changes in skin pigment
• Decreased muscle mass
• Dermatitis
• Diarrhea
• Edema
• Failure to gain weight and grow
• Fatigue
• Hair changes (color or texture)
• Irritability
• Enlarged liver
• Lethargy or apathy
• Severe infections
• Shock

Signs—

• Edema
• Growth retardation
• Muscle wasting
• Mental changes

Investigations—

Blood test—

• Arterial blood gas
• BUN
• Full blood count
• Creatinine clearance
• Serum creatinine
• Serum potassium
• Total protein levels

Urine test

Treatment—

• Oral rehydration
• Nutritional support

1. 1. Calories(carbohydrates, simple sugars, and fats)
   2. Protein
   3. Vitamins
   4. Mineral supplements.
   5. lactase enzyme(for lactose intolerance)

• Food must be reintroduced slowly
• Restore blood volume and maintain blood pressure(if in shock )
• Ayurvedic Medicines

Complications—

• Coma
• Permanent mental and physical disability
• Shock

Prevention–

Take a balanced diet which has enough carbohydrates, fat (at least 10 percent of total calories), and protein (12 percent of total calories).