Nutritional Marasmus: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Nutritional marasmus is a severe form of malnutrition that occurs when the body is deprived of essential nutrients, primarily protein and calories. This condition most commonly affects children under the age of five who live in poverty-stricken areas with limited access to food and clean water. Nutritional marasmus is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention.
- Causes of Nutritional Marasmus
- Poor maternal nutrition during pregnancy
- Early weaning from breastfeeding
- Insufficient food intake
- Chronic diarrhea or infection
- Symptoms of Nutritional Marasmus
- Severe weight loss and muscle wasting
- Weakness and fatigue
- Stunted growth and development
- Delayed wound healing
- Increased susceptibility to infections
- Treatment of Nutritional Marasmus
Nutritional marasmus is caused by a severe deficiency in protein and calories. This can happen when a person is not getting enough food or when the body is unable to absorb nutrients properly. Other factors that can contribute to nutritional marasmus include:
The symptoms of nutritional marasmus are severe and can develop quickly. They include:
The treatment of nutritional marasmus involves restoring the body's nutrient balance. This is typically done through a combination of therapeutic feeding and medical care. The goal is to provide the body with enough calories and protein to support normal growth and development. In severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary to provide around-the-clock care.
Preventing nutritional marasmus involves improving access to nutritious foods and clean water. This can include programs that provide food assistance, education on proper nutrition, and improving access to healthcare.
In conclusion, nutritional marasmus is a severe form of malnutrition that can have life-threatening consequences. It primarily affects children under the age of five who live in poverty-stricken areas. While the condition is treatable, it requires immediate medical attention to prevent long-term health consequences. Improving access to nutritious foods and clean water is key to preventing nutritional marasmus from occurring in the first place.