Signs and Symptoms
General malnutrition often develops slowly, over months or years. As the body’s store of nutrients is depleted, changes begin to happen at the cellular level, affecting biochemical processes and decreasing the body’s ability to fight infections.
Common Symptoms
The most common symptoms of malnutrition include significant weight loss, fatigue and dizziness. These can become apparent at any point after the lack of nutrients is realized by the body.
Oral Symptoms
Swollen and/or bleeding gums are the first oral symptoms of malnutrition. As the malnutrition continues, the teeth may begin to decay.
Musculoskeletal Symptoms
Fragile bones, osteoporosis and muscle loss and/or weakness are symptoms of malnutrition. When calcium or vitamin D are the nutrients lacking, these symptoms may manifest shortly after the body becomes malnourished.
Mental Symptoms
Malnutrition can cause a slowed reaction time. However, in the elderly population, malnutrition may cause dementia and/or memory loss.
Decreased Organ Function
As malnutrition ravages the body, the organs may begin to function less efficiently. This can lead to heart problems, decreased liver function, kidney failure, decreased lung capacity, intestinal problems, stomach irregularities and abnormal menstrual cycles in females.
Abdominal Symptoms
Ascites, which manifests as a swollen or bloated abdomen, is a sign of malnutrition. This condition is exacerbated when the liver, kidneys or intestinal tract is affected.
Dry Skin
People with malnutrition may develop abnormally dry skin, despite the use of lotions and creams. In severe cases, the skin may begin to crack.
- Weight loss, decreased muscle mass, and weakness
- Hair that has lost its pigment
- Brittle and malformed (spooned) nails
- Chronic diarrhea
- Slow wound healing
- Bone and joint pain
- Growth retardation (in children)
- Mental changes such as confusion and irritability
** These symptoms and signs are, by no means, the be all, end all list. These are just ones that I have found during my research.**

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