Malnutrition is the most common and serious problem in developing and underdeveloped country especially in pre-school children. It is an important cause of morbidity and mortality among children and also leading to permanent impairments and developmental delays in children. Here are some clinical signs prevalent in malnourished children.
Areas that can be assessed for malnutrition.
- General appearance of malnourished child– The child might look fatigued and tired all the time
- Weight– The child might be underweight or overweight depending upon the type of malnourishment present( marasmus or kwashiorkor).
- Skin -The skin may appear dry, pale, pigmented, flaky or scaly there may be presence of petechiae or bruises, lack of subcutaneous fat or edematous.
- Nails – Nails may appear brittle, pale in color, ridged or spoon shaped.
- Eyes– Eyes appear pale(conjunctiva),dryness, soft cornea may be soft, dull cornea, night blindness.
- Lips– Lips may appear swollen, cracks at the side of mouth.
- Tongue– Tongue appear beefy red, may decrease or increase in size.
- Gums-Gums appear spongy or swollen and inflamed or may bleed easily.
- Gastrointestinal system– There may be loss of appetite, diarrhea or even constipation, worm infestation, liver enlarged and protruding abdomen.
- Nervous system– There may be presence of tingling sensation or burning sensation, irritability or mental confusion or decreased reflexes.
What are some of the signs of malnutrition in children?