Malnutrition

Malnutrition is an imbalance between nutrient intake and the body's needs, encompassing undernutrition (deficiency of energy/protein/micronutrients, causing wasting/stunting) and overnutrition (excess intake causing obesity). It is common in hospitalized, institutionalized, and elderly patients, as well as in famine/poverty settings. Screening (NRS-2002/MUST) and nutritional support improve outcomes.

Common Symptoms

Weight loss; wasting; weakness; poor wound healing; recurrent infection; or overweight/obesity (overnutrition)

Causes and Pathogenesis

Inadequate/imbalanced intake, increased requirements, impaired digestion/absorption, or disease-related catabolism depletes or overwhelms nutrient stores.

Treatment

Nutritional assessment; dietary counseling; enteral/parenteral nutrition; treat underlying disease; micronutrient repletion

Preventive Measures

Routine nutrition screening in hospitals/elderly care; balanced diet; early nutritional support.

Department to Visit

It is recommended to visit the Nutrition department; an appointment can be booked on this platform before the visit.

Warm reminder: The above information is for health science reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek medical attention at a regular hospital promptly.