Child malnutrition occurs when there is a deficiency of nutrients in the child’s body, which can happen due to incorrect feeding, food deprivation or changes in the gastrointestinal tract, such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, for example, in which the absorption of nutrients can be impaired.
Thus, as a consequence of the deficiency of vitamins and minerals fundamental for the proper functioning of the body, it is possible to notice the appearance of symptoms such as excessive tiredness, more resealed skin, occurrence of infections more often and delayed in the growth and development of the child.
It is important that as soon as signs and symptoms are noted that are suggestive of malnutrition, the pediatrician is consulted, because it is possible that the child’s weight assessment is evaluated in relation to their age and height, make the diagnosis of malnutrition and refer the child to a nutritionist so that nutritional needs can be identified and an adequate food plan for the child is established.
Symptoms of child malnutrition
The main signs and symptoms of child malnutrition are:
- excessive tiredness;
- Skin more reseaked and pale;
- delay in child development;
- Easiest to have infections, as the immune system is weaker;
- Irritability;
- Longer healing;
- Hair loss;
- A lack of strength;
- Decrease in muscle mass;
- Lack of breath and energy, especially if there is also anemia.
In addition, in some cases, especially when malnutrition is very serious, there may also be impairment in the function of some organs, such as liver, lung and heart, which can endanger the child’s life.
It is important that the pediatrician is consulted as soon as signs and symptoms that are indicative of malnutrition are identified, because this way it is possible that tests are done that help to confirm the diagnosis and the most appropriate treatment is initiated in order to avoid possible complications of malnutrition such as changes in growth, organ failure and changes in the nervous system. Read more about the complications of malnutrition.
How the diagnosis is made
The diagnosis of child malnutrition is made by the pediatrician from the evaluation of the signs and symptoms presented by the child. In addition, physical examination is performed in the child, in which the abdominal circumference and head circumference, weight and height of the child is made, being verified how the growth curve of the child is.
An assessment of nutritional history and blood and urine tests may also be performed.
It is important to keep in mind that although malnutrition is usually associated with thinness, it is possible that children who are overweight for their age are also malnourished, since it is a situation caused by the lack of vitamins and minerals.
The main causes
The main causes of child malnutrition are:
- Early smsme a.
- Nutritionally poor food;
- Frequent intestinal infections that have diarrhea and vomiting as symptoms;
- Changes in the gastrointestinal system, such as Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis and celiac disease;
- Eating disorders such as anorexia and bulimia.
In addition, socioeconomic conditions, low level of education, inadequate sanitation conditions and the weak link between mother and child may also have as a consequence malnutrition.
How is the treatment
Treatment for child malnutrition should be guided by the pediatrician and the nutritionist and aims to combat the symptoms of malnutrition, provide the necessary nutrients for healthy growth of the child and promote their quality of life.
Thus, according to the level of malnutrition and the nutrients that are in short supply, it may be recommended to make a change in eating habits and progressive inclusion of some foods. In addition, in the case of children who are unable to have a more solid diet, it may be indicated the consumption of more pasty foods or liquids, as well as supplements, to ensure the nutritional need.
In cases of severe malnutrition, it may be necessary for the child to be admitted to the hospital so that feeding can be done through a tube and complications are prevented.
A doctor graduated from the Federal University of Rio Grande with CRM 28364-RS and specialist in Pediatrics from the Brazilian Society of Pediatrics.
