Child malnutrition is a situation characterized by a deficiency of nutrients in the child's body, which can happen due to incorrect feeding, deprivation of food or due to changes in the gastrointestinal tract, such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, for example, in which absorption of nutrients can be impaired.
Thus, as a consequence of the deficiency of essential vitamins and minerals for the proper functioning of the body, it is possible to notice the appearance of some signs and symptoms such as excessive tiredness, more dry skin, occurrence of infections more frequently and delayed growth and development of the child .
It is important that as soon as signs and symptoms that are suggestive of malnutrition are noticed, the pediatrician is consulted, as it is thus possible to assess the child's weight in relation to his age and height, make the diagnosis of malnutrition and refer the child to child to a nutritionist so that nutritional needs can be identified and an appropriate eating plan for the child is established.
Symptoms of child malnutrition
Malnutrition is most often associated with thinness, however as it is a situation caused by the lack of essential vitamins and minerals for the proper functioning of the body, it is possible that children who are overweight for their age, are also malnourished , since the diet can be rich in sugar and fats and poor in foods that provide the essential nutrients for the body.
Thus, some of the main signs and symptoms of child malnutrition are:
- Excessive tiredness;
- More dry and pale skin;
- Delay in the child's development;
- Easier to have infections, since the immune system is weaker;
- Irritability;
- Longer healing;
- Loss of hair;
- Lack of strength;
- Decreased muscle mass;
- Shortness of breath and energy, especially if there is also anemia.
In addition, in some cases, especially when malnutrition is very severe, there may also be impairment in the function of some organs, such as the liver, lung and heart, which can put the child's life at risk.
It is important that the pediatrician is consulted as soon as signs and symptoms are identified that are indicative of malnutrition, as this way it is possible that tests are done to help confirm the diagnosis and the most appropriate treatment is started in order to avoid possible complications of malnutrition. such as changes in growth, organ failure and changes in the nervous system. See more about the complications of malnutrition.
Main causes
The main causes that may be related to child malnutrition are:
- Early weaning;
- Nutritionally poor food;
- Frequent intestinal infections with symptoms such as diarrhea and vomiting;
- 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 education levels, inadequate basic sanitation conditions and the weak connection between mother and child can also result in malnutrition.
How is the treatment
Treatment for child malnutrition should be guided by a pediatrician and nutritionist and aims to combat the symptoms of malnutrition, provide the necessary nutrients for the healthy growth of the child and promote their quality of life.
Thus, according to the level of malnutrition and the nutrients that are lacking, changes in eating habits and the progressive inclusion of some foods may be recommended. In addition, in the case of children who are unable to have a more solid diet, the consumption of more pasty or liquid foods, as well as supplements, can be indicated to guarantee 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.
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Bibliography
- DOCTORS WITHOUT BORDERS. Malnutrition. Available in: . Accessed on 19 Oct 2020
- SILVA, Roberta P. Child malnutrition: a problem to be faced. Specialization thesis, 2012. Federal University of Minas Gerais.
- MINISTRY OF HEALTH. Malnutrition. Available in: . Accessed on 19 Oct 2020
