Kwashiorkor meaning

Kwashiorkor is a severe form of malnutrition characterized by protein deficiency.


Kwashiorkor definitions

Word backwards rokroihsawk
Part of speech The word "kwashiorkor" is a noun.
Syllabic division kwa-shi-or-kor
Plural The plural of the word "kwashiorkor" is kwashiorkor. It is both the singular and plural form of the word.
Total letters 11
Vogais (3) a,i,o
Consonants (5) k,w,s,h,r

What is Kwashiorkor?

Kwashiorkor is a severe form of malnutrition that occurs when there is a lack of protein in the diet. It is most commonly seen in developing countries where access to a variety of foods is limited. The condition is characterized by a swollen belly, due to fluid accumulation, as well as skin and hair changes.

Symptoms of Kwashiorkor

Common symptoms of kwashiorkor include swelling of the ankles, feet, and belly, tiredness and irritability, skin changes such as dry and flaky skin, hair changes such as thinning or discoloration, and a loss of appetite. Children with kwashiorkor may also have a distended abdomen, which is a hallmark sign of the condition.

Treatment of Kwashiorkor

Treatment for kwashiorkor involves gradually reintroducing protein-rich foods into the diet. This should be done under the supervision of a healthcare professional to avoid complications such as refeeding syndrome. In severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary to provide intravenous fluids and nutrients until the individual is stable.

Prevention of Kwashiorkor

Prevention of kwashiorkor involves ensuring a balanced diet that includes an adequate amount of protein. This is especially important in children, as they are more vulnerable to the effects of malnutrition. Education about nutrition and access to affordable, nutritious foods are key factors in preventing kwashiorkor.

In conclusion, kwashiorkor is a serious condition that requires prompt treatment to prevent long-term complications. By understanding the symptoms, seeking proper medical care, and focusing on prevention, we can work towards reducing the prevalence of kwashiorkor in at-risk populations.


Kwashiorkor Examples

  1. The doctor diagnosed the child with severe kwashiorkor due to a lack of protein in their diet.
  2. The humanitarian organization provided relief efforts to communities suffering from kwashiorkor.
  3. The symptoms of kwashiorkor may include edema, fatigue, and skin discoloration.
  4. It is important to address malnutrition in developing countries to prevent cases of kwashiorkor.
  5. The child's kwashiorkor worsened as they did not have access to adequate nutrition.
  6. The healthcare workers were trained to identify and treat cases of kwashiorkor in remote areas.
  7. A balanced diet rich in proteins and vitamins can help prevent kwashiorkor in children.
  8. The mother was advised to breastfeed her infant to reduce the risk of developing kwashiorkor.
  9. The government implemented programs to educate communities on the importance of nutrition to prevent kwashiorkor.
  10. The prevalence of kwashiorkor decreased in the region after public health interventions were implemented.


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  • Updated 11/04/2024 - 16:06:33