Is the term "marasmus" one you are familiar with? Have you ever wondered how we could acquire it? And how risky it is? Can it be prevented? We might learn more by reading this article on "The signs and symptoms of marasmus".

Marasmus is a condition in which there is a severe lack of all macronutrients, such as carbohydrates, protein, and lipids, which the body needs to function. Marasmus results in an apparent loss of muscle and fat beneath the skin, giving bodies an emaciated look. Anyone who does not consume enough calories to support their growing bodies can develop marasmus, but it is more common in children, especially infants. A risk also exists for elderly people who live alone and have trouble taking care of themselves and preparing food. When an elderly person hasn't eaten well for a few months or years, it might possibly result to marasmus. Marasmus occurs more frequently in poor nations where there is a high rate of poverty and food scarcity as well as the possibility of parasites and infectious diseases causing calorie depletion.

Children who have severe protein and calorie deficiencies may lose weight and muscle mass. An acute loss of body fat and muscular tissue, which results in an exceptionally low body mass index, is the main sign of marasmus. Stunted growth, often known as inability to grow, is the primary sign of marasmus in children.  A child who has marasmus may be extremely hungry and suck on their hands or garments in an attempt to find something to eat. However, some sufferers of marasmus will also have anorexia, which causes them to be unable or unwilling to eat.

Additionally, a marasmus sufferer would gradually lose facial fat and body tissue. Their skin begins to fold due to the decrease of body mass, and their bones also start to show through their skin and could have sunken-in eyes. Long-term repercussions of marasmus in children include sluggish growth and recurrent illnesses in addition to weight loss. In a child with marasmus, significant consequences like diarrhea, measles, or a respiratory illness can be fatal.

Getting enough calories and protein, preferably from a nutritious, well-balanced diet, is the greatest way to prevent marasmus. Depending on what is available, any protein- and calorie-rich diet can be utilized to avoid marasmus. Moreover, foods high in protein, such as skimmed milk, fish, eggs, and nuts, are best for energy and growth. And for the purpose of supplying additional nutrients and minerals as well as preventing vitamin shortages, fruits and vegetables are essential. Supplements are an option as well, but they might not be as effective as foods in providing nutrients. When recovering from marasmus, a person should take precautions to prevent complications including dehydration and diarrhea.

PDO I  Ayesa Gay A. Bejerano, RND

References:

Marasmus: A type of malnutrition

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/313185#symptoms

What is Marasmus?

https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/what-is-marasmus

Marasmus

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/23296-marasmus