Malnutrition
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 1, 2023.
Malnutrition occurs when you do not get enough calories or nutrients to keep you healthy. Nutrients include protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals.
WHILE YOU ARE HERE:
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Medicines:
- Vitamins and minerals may be needed to replace vitamins and minerals your body needs. They may be given in your IV, as a shot, or as a pill.
- Appetite stimulants are medicines that help improve your appetite so you will want to eat more.
Tests:
- Blood tests may be done to find out if your body is low in certain nutrients.
- An EKG test records your heart rhythm and how fast your heart beats.
- Intake and output of liquids may need to be tracked. Your healthcare providers may need to track the amount of liquid you are getting. They may also need to know how much you are urinating.
- A urine sample may be needed. For this test you need to urinate into a small container. You will be given instructions on how to clean your genital area before you urinate. Do not touch the inside of the cup. Follow instructions on where to place the cup of urine when you are done.
- A chest x-ray is used to check your lungs and heart. Healthcare providers may use the x-ray to look for signs of infection, such as pneumonia.
Treatment:
- Increased calories and nutrients will be needed. A dietitian may help you plan larger, healthy meals. If you have trouble eating larger meals, eat small meals throughout the day. You may need to include snacks between meals. You may need to eat or drink a nutrition supplement if you have trouble eating the right kinds and amounts of food.
- Nutrition support may be needed if you are not able to eat food normally. You may need to get nutrition through a feeding tube or a catheter.
RISKS:
Malnutrition usually develops in stages. Malnutrition may make your body weak and cause health problems such as trouble fighting infections and slowed healing. Severe malnutrition may cause heart problems, breathing problems, and kidney problems. It can also cause changes in the level of chemicals in your blood called electrolytes. If untreated, severe malnutrition can be life-threatening.
CARE AGREEMENT:
You have the right to help plan your care. Learn about your health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your healthcare providers to decide what care you want to receive. You always have the right to refuse treatment.© Copyright Merative 2023 Information is for End User's use only and may not be sold, redistributed or otherwise used for commercial purposes.
The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
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