Marasmus

A variety of nutrition deficiency diseases affect both children and adults, and each has its own set of characteristics. Malnutrition is another term used to describe this nutrition deficiency disorder. The majority of deficiency diseases are found in developing countries, in areas with high rates of poverty, or in individuals who have very little knowledge about the nutrients in food, cleanliness, health, and hygiene practises and procedures.

A variety of nutrients are required for the proper functioning of our body cells, tissues, and organs, including proteins, vitamins and fats, among other things. Protiens are referred to as the “building blocks of life” because they are the primary source of energy and also assist us in the contraction of muscles and the formation of bones, skin, and blood cells, among other things.

What is Marasmus?

In general, marasmus is classified as a type of nutritional deficiency disorder that most commonly affects children. If it is not detected and treated at an early stage, it can be life threatening.

Causes of Marasmus

The disease, as previously stated, is a result of a severe deficiency in protein, vitamins, minerals, carbohydrates, and lipids. The following are the primary contributing factors:

Infections caused by viruses, bacteria, and parasites are also significant contributors to this condition.

Children, older adults, and people with a weakened immune system are more susceptible to marasmus than the general population.

Other causes of marasmus include:

• Poverty

• Starvation

• Famine or a scarcity of food are two terms used to describe the situation.

• There is a scarcity of information about nutritional requirements.

• Intake of medications that have been shown to interfere with nutrient absorption.

Symptoms of Marasmus

The symptoms of marasmus are more common to the symptoms of kwashiorkor, which includes:

• Dizziness

• Weight loss is a goal for many people.

• Dehydration.

• Insufficiency of energy

• Growth has been slowed.

• Diarrhoea for an extended period of time.

• Stomach has shrunk in size.

• Infections of the respiratory tract.

• Skin that is dry and hair that is brittle.

• Underweight or a loss of muscle mass and subcutaneous fat are both possible outcomes.

Risk Factors of Marasmus

The risk factors for marasmus include:

• Residents of developing countries are at greater risk of contracting marasmus than residents of developed countries.

• Children suffering from marasmus are found in greater numbers in areas affected by famine or extreme poverty than in other parts of the world.

• When nursing mothers are unable to breastfeed their infants due to malnutrition, the risk of marasmus in children increases significantly.

• Inadequate medical care and a high prevalence of disease are two other factors that contribute to an increased risk of marasmus in the general population.

Diagnosis of Marasmus

This deficiency disease can be diagnosed by the physician through a physical examination such as:

• A skin test to determine how well the immune system is functioning.

• A blood test to determine whether or not there are any microbial infections present.

• The height, weight, and physical activity of a child in relation to his or her age.

• Psychological evaluation of a child in order to determine his or her mental state and behaviour

• In order to diagnose diarrhoea and other nutritional deficiency disorders, a urine and stool test is performed.

Treatment for Marasmus

The first and primary treatment prescribed for the patient suffering from marasmus includes:

• Taking multivitamin supplements can help you lose weight and overcome a lack of nutrition.

• The consumption of water and other fluids containing electrolytes can help to prevent the onset of dehydration symptoms.

• When it comes to treating children with pathogenic infections, only a few antibiotics or other medications are used.

• A well-balanced diet is administered once the child’s condition has stabilised and the child has begun to recover slowly.

• Diets high in protein, such as skimmed milk, as well as other energy-dense foods and supplements can help to increase the amount of energy in the body.

Prevention and Safety Measures for Marasmus

It is important to recognise that Marasmus is a life-threatening nutrition deficiency disorder that can lead to death if the symptoms are ignored. Even with proper nutrition and medication, a full recovery can take up to a month. In addition to receiving treatment, the patient should take some preventative measures, such as:

• Taking a drink of boiled water.
• Eating food that has been washed and cooked.
• Drinking more water will help you stay hydrated.
• Maintain a high level of cleanliness and hygiene.
• Having a diet that is nutritious and well-balanced.
• Teaching pregnant women and lactating mothers about the importance of nutrition, as well as encouraging every mother to breastfeed her infants for 5 – 6 months to protect them from nutritional difficulties and improve their immunity are all important lessons to learn.

Risks with Marasmus

These diseases or health conditions also pose a serious threat to an individual’s health, and some of them are potentially fatal. Along with the physical symptoms or signs listed above, individuals suffering from this condition may also experience psychological distress.

As a result, in order to fully recover from this condition, it is also necessary to seek treatment for mental health issues. Over time, marasmus can lead to a variety of complications, including hypothermia, hypotension, and bradycardia, among others.

Conclusion:

Marasmus is a condition that occurs as a result of severe malnutrition. It can affect anyone who is struggling to survive due to malnutrition. However, it is most commonly seen in children. Children aged 0 to 1 year old are particularly susceptible to the occurrence of Marasmus. As a result, their total body weight is reduced to less than 62 percent of the average body weight for their age in that situation. When a child has pneumonia, anaemia, malaria, meningitis, or another pathological condition such as diarrhoea, marasmus can develop in his or her body. If the proper steps are not taken in a timely manner, this disease can progress to a severe stage, possibly resulting in death.