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What is kwashiorkor and its symptoms?

What is kwashiorkor and its symptoms?

Kwashiorkor is a condition resulting from inadequate protein intake. Early symptoms include fatigue, irritability, and lethargy. As protein deprivation continues, one sees growth failure, loss of muscle mass, generalized swelling (edema), and decreased immunity. A large, protuberant belly is common.

What causes kwashiorkor?

Kwashiorkor is caused by a lack of protein in the diet. Every cell in your body contains protein. You need protein in your diet for your body to repair cells and make new cells. A healthy human body regenerates cells in this way constantly.

What is marasmus and kwashiorkor?

Marasmus is a condition primarily caused by a deficiency in calories and energy, whereas kwashiorkor indicates an associated protein deficiency, resulting in an edematous appearance.

What are the complications of kwashiorkor?

Some complications of kwashiorkor include:

  • Hepatomegaly (from the fatty liver)
  • Cardiovascular system collapse/hypovolemic shock.
  • Urinary tract infections.

What is another name for kwashiorkor?

kwashiorkor, also called protein malnutrition, condition caused by severe protein deficiency.

What is the deficiency of kwashiorkor?

Kwashiorkor is a form of acute malnutrition that occurs due to protein deficiency. Kwashiorkor is a serious condition that can happen when a person does not consume enough protein. Severe protein deficiency can lead to fluid retention, which can make the stomach look bloated.

How is kwashiorkor and marasmus treated?

Treatment of marasmus

  1. Correct water and electrolyte balance. Use a nasogastric tube.
  2. Treat infections.
  3. Provide dietary support.
  4. Counsel parents and plan the future, including immunization and diet supplements.
  5. Add frequent small feeds.
  6. Use a liquid diet.
  7. Prevent hypothermia.
  8. Give vitamin A and folic acid.

What is marasmus and its symptoms?

The most common symptom of marasmus is being underweight due to malnourishment. The following symptoms can occur due to deficiency, dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, or infection if marasmus remains untreated for a long time:‌ Weight loss. Stunted growth. Dry skin and eyes.

What is the prevalence of kwashiorkor?

CONCLUSION: Depending on the results revealed by the present study we conclude that the highest prevalence of Marasmic kwashiorkor 63% and children with 2-3 years of age were present at the study site-Taluka Dhadgaon,District Nandurbar, Maharashtra, India, followed by kwashiorkor 24% and Marasmus 13%.

What is vitamin A deficiency?

Vitamin A deficiency can lead to dry eyes, blindness or dying corneas, also known as Bitot’s spots. One of the first signs of deficiency is often an inability to produce tears.

Is kwashiorkor an English word?

kwash•i•or•kor (kwä′shē ôr′kôr, -kər), n. [Pathol.] Pathologya malnutrition disease, chiefly of children, caused by severe protein and vitamin deficiency and characterized by retarded growth, changes in pigmentation, potbelly, and anemia.

What is the difference between kwashiorkor and marasmus?

One major difference between kwashiorkor and marasmus is that kwashiorkor can occur rapidly, while marasmus is usually the result of a gradual process. Kwashiorkor often manifests in an affected person as a well-nourished appearance, but marasmus manifests as a starved appearance.

What country is kwashiorkor most common in?

Kwashiorkor is rarely found in the United States and other countries with a generally steady food supply. It’s most common in sub-Saharan Africa and other countries where people routinely have a limited supply of food. Most people who are affected by kwashiorkor recover fully if they are treated early.

What affect does kwashiorkor?

Kwashiorkor is another severe form of protein-energy malnutrition where the main deficiency is protein. Severe cases of malnutrition can lead to kwashiorkor. Unlike marasmus, kwashiorkor causes the body to retain fluid in the lower legs, feet, arms, hands, and face, leading to a swollen appearance.