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—
- 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
- Calories(carbohydrates, simple sugars, and fats)
- Protein
- Vitamins
- Mineral supplements.
- 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).
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