Symptoms of Malnutrition
Symptoms of Malnutrition
Malnutrition is a physical condition arising from improper nutrient intake and an unbalanced diet. It is a condition which plagues many developing nations of the world. Though most people think of malnutrition as deficiency of nutrients in the body, malnutrition also refers to excessive nutrition as well.
Under nutrition occurs when a body is dispossessed of critical nutrients due to lack of food or an inability to absorb food known as mal-absorption. Over nutrition occurs when the intake of excessive nutrients cause imbalance in the body’s nutrient ratio.
It is therefore absolutely necessary to be able to distinguish and recognize the symptoms of the forms of malnutrition. Listed below are the most common symptoms of malnutrition.
• Eyes – puffiness of eyes, pliable appearance of the corneal region, disappearance of the blue shade of the whites and general dreary and faded outlook of the eye.
• Face – Sharply defined wrinkles are visible originating from the mouth and spreading outwards. These may solidify and become scars as malnutrition approaches advanced stages. Deep fissures, swelling and inflammation may be found on the lips and the outer corners of the mouth. A protrusion composed of a thick mucous lining may appear to be part of the lips.
• Glands – The thyroid glands found underneath the voice box or in lay terms, the Adams apple appears swollen and so do the salivary glands.
• Mouth – disappearance of the taste buds, inflamed and sore tongue with white fungal patches.
• Muscles – Slow destruction of muscles due to the breakdown and utilization of their energy by the body.
• Skin – Follicular Hyperkeratosis occurs. This is the fading away of the natural color of the skin under nails. Xerosis also occurs in the bodily skin which is basically the lusterless and yellowish dimming of skin.
• Teeth – Tooth decay, enamel erosion, breakable teeth and gum bones, pitting, white or brown stains on teeth and seeping of puss from the bony structures found beneath the gum lines.
• Psychological – impassiveness and impartiality to surroundings. Lethargy, exhaustion and lack of concern in all matters are exhibited. People with severe malnutrition may experience memory loss, tetchiness and insipidity.
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